Connor Roberts, the 28-year-old right-back currently on loan at Leeds United from Burnley, has made a significant contribution to Leeds’ promotion campaign despite only starting two matches. His performances, including a goal against Leicester and an assist against Huddersfield, have made him a valuable asset to the team. As a result, Leeds is reportedly interested in signing Roberts on a permanent basis after the season ends.
Roberts’ potential permanent move to Leeds, however, casts doubt on the future of Jamie Shackleton at the club. Shackleton, whose contract expires in June, has had a challenging season with injuries and limited game time. Despite a promising start to the 2023-24 season and a hint from manager Daniel Farke about a possible new deal, Shackleton’s prospects at Leeds seem uncertain.
With Roberts’ experience in both the Championship and the Premier League, and the likelihood that Burnley won’t demand a high transfer fee—especially if they face relegation—Leeds sees him as a smart acquisition. This situation suggests that Shackleton, a Leeds academy graduate who can play in various defensive and midfield roles, may be leaving the club on a free transfer at the end of the season, despite earlier indications that he might be offered a new contract.