Leeds United have announced their retained list for the 2024-25 season, and it includes some significant updates. The club has exercised a one-year extension option on Sam Byram’s contract, ensuring he will remain at Elland Road for another year.
However, the list also reveals that Ian Poveda is among 11 players who will be released by the club. Poveda’s departure may come as a surprise to some, given his potential and the faith shown in him by former manager Marcelo Bielsa. Despite this, the club has decided not to extend his stay, and he is now free to find a new club.
Poveda’s exit is likely to attract interest from several clubs, with Sunderland already linked to the attacker. It remains to be seen where his next destination will be, but it’s clear that Leeds United have decided to move on from the talented youngster.
In addition to Poveda, several other players will be leaving the club, including Luke Ayling, who has already signed with Middlesbrough after a successful loan spell last season. Charlie Allen, Lewis Bate, Keenan Carole, Cuba Diboe, Scott Godden, Harvey Sutcliffe, Dani van den Heuvel, and Morten Spencer will also depart, along with Stuart Dallas, who announced his retirement due to injury issues earlier this year.
While some of these departures may not come as a shock, others have already been paid tribute to by fans and teammates alike. The futures of Liam Cooper and Jamie Shackleton remain uncertain, with both players in talks to extend their stays at Elland Road.
The retained list announcement provides clarity on the club’s plans for the upcoming season, and fans will be eagerly awaiting news on potential signings and transfer activity in the coming weeks. Daniel Farke’s promotion-winning season has raised expectations, and the club will be looking to build on that success in the next campaign.
The decision to release Poveda may raise some eyebrows, given his potential and the faith shown in him by Bielsa. However, the club clearly feels that he is not part of their plans moving forward, and it’s now up to Poveda to find a new club where he can continue his development.
Leeds United’s squad is taking shape, and fans will be eagerly awaiting the start of the new season to see how their team fares. With transfer activity heating up and the new campaign on the horizon, the Whites will be looking to build on last season’s success and make a push for the Premier League.
In other Leeds United news, Daniel Farke is reportedly eyeing a move for powerhouse Eric Smith, following a successful season that saw the club achieve promotion. This potential signing would be a significant coup for the club, and fans will be watching with interest to see if the deal materializes.
The comings and goings at Leeds United are a reminder of the ever-changing landscape of professional football. As the club looks to build on last season’s success, fans will be hoping for a successful transfer window and a strong start to the new campaign.
With the retained list now confirmed, attention turns to the players who will be staying at the club and those who will be joining them. Leeds United’s squad is taking shape, and fans will be eagerly awaiting the start of the new season to see how their team fares.
In conclusion, the retained list announcement marks the end of an era for some players at Leeds United, while others will be looking to make their mark in the upcoming season. With transfer activity heating up and the new campaign on the horizon, fans of the Whites will be eagerly awaiting the next chapter in the club’s history.