Leeds United defender Junior Firpo leaves after contract expiry

Leeds United defender Junior Firpo is set to leave the club following the expiration of his contract, with the 28-year-old expected to rejoin Real Betis, his boyhood club. Firpo joined Leeds from Barcelona in 2021 and made 119 appearances over four years, including 35 matches in the 2024-25 season where he contributed four goals and 10 assists, playing a key role in Leeds' Championship title and promotion to the Premier League. Despite struggles and criticism during Leeds' recent Premier League campaigns, Firpo was an important part of Daniel Farke’s promotion-winning side, helping the team keep 25 clean sheets. Leeds praised Firpo for his contributions on and off the pitch, noting his popularity among fans and his role in the community, and wished him well in his future endeavors. Firpo’s departure marks the end of a challenging yet ultimately successful stint at Elland Road, where he helped the club bounce back to the top flight. Alongside Firpo, Leeds also confirmed the return of loan players Manor Solomon and Joe Rothwell to their parent clubs and announced new signings as they prepare for the upcoming season.