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Leeds United on Verge of Major Transfer Breakthrough as Summer Plans Accelerate Fresh Deal Looms for Star Winger Amid Contract Crunch at Elland Road
With the £15 million signing of towering Slovenian defender Jaka Bijol wrapped up, Leeds United have taken a major step forward in reshaping their squad ahead of the 2025/26 Premier League campaign. Bijol’s arrival addresses a crucial gap in central defence, bringing aerial dominance and composure to Adam Underwood’s rebuild.
Having already secured striker Lukas Nmecha to bolster attacking options, the club’s recruitment drive is still far from over. Leeds remain actively pursuing reinforcements in multiple areas including a new goalkeeper, a left-back to replace Junior Firpo, a creative number 10, a central midfielder, and potentially another striker.
But while incoming transfers are one part of the summer puzzle, Leeds are also working to secure their current assets with winger Dan James reportedly close to agreeing fresh terms. The Wales international, who is entering the final year of the five-year deal he signed in 2021, has drawn interest from Everton. However, according to The Athletic’s Beren Cross, Leeds are optimistic a new deal will be finalised once James returns from holiday.
Sources indicate that the proposed contract is on reduced terms compared to his original Premier League-level salary, but still represents a strong offer in line with Leeds’ financial standing and top-flight status.
James isn’t the only player entering the last year of his deal. Leeds face crucial decisions on several expiring contracts including all three senior goalkeepers. Illan Meslier is expected to leave, with Turkish clubs and Jose Mourinho reportedly tracking him, while Karl Darlow and Alex Cairns are under contract until 2026.
Veteran striker Patrick Bamford and midfield loanees Darko Gyabi and Sam Greenwood are also heading into their final 12 months. Leeds are open to offers around £34 million for the latter duo, as part of a broader restructuring strategy that balances new signings with retaining key players and managing outgoing deals.
In short, Leeds’ summer is heating up on all fronts and Dan James’ new contract could be the next big box ticked in what’s shaping up to be a pivotal window at Elland Road.
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