Leeds publish retained list as Meslier to leave and talks continue over Byram, Cairns and Darlow | OneFootball

Leeds United have published their retained list, with talks ongoing over Sam Byram, Alex Cairns and Karl Darlow. The announcement followed captain Ethan Ampadu signing a new four-year deal, replacing terms that ran to summer 2027 with an option for a further year.

The club said in a statement that Illan Meslier will leave after seven years at Elland Road. Loanee Facundo Buonanotte returns to Brighton & Hove Albion, having played just 36 minutes of Premier League football since January.

Leeds are keen to keep Darlow as part of next season’s goalkeeping group, although he has other suitors. Byram has been widely expected to depart after only 86 minutes of first team action last season. Cairns has largely operated in a supportive, player-coach capacity.

Several academy players will also move on, including Connor Douglas, Devon Brockie, Lewis Pirie and Marley Wilson. Pirie joined from Aberdeen in 2023 and featured sparingly for the Under 21s.

Leeds have offered new terms to 20-year-old keeper Darryl Ombang, who spent time on loan at Darlington and FC United of Manchester.

Pro contracts have been offered to Freddie Lane, Jack Morris, Jacob Render, Joshua Hamilton, Will Firth and Northern Ireland Under 19 Luke Matykiewicz. The club have taken up a third-year option on 18-year-old George Kenyon, and scholars Alex Baird and Elton Simo will leave.

Source: yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk