Leeds United line up Junior Firpo replacement as transfer agreement nears

Junior Firpo Set to Leave Leeds United as Club Intensifies Search for Left-Back Replacement

Leeds United look increasingly likely to start the 2025/26 Premier League season without Junior Firpo, as the full-back appears to be edging closer to a move away from Elland Road. The 28-year-old Dominican Republic international has become one of the key storylines of Leeds’ summer transfer window, with his contract due to expire in just over a week.

Reports suggest that Firpo is close to securing a return to his former club, Real Betis, who have tabled a three-year contract offer. That deal would see the defender turn his back on West Yorkshire and head back to Spain, where he first made his name. Despite Leeds offering him a contract extension in a bid to retain his services, the latest indications strongly point to Firpo leaving the club once his current deal concludes in the coming days.

The implications of Firpo’s imminent departure are significant for Leeds, especially considering his influence during the club’s recent Championship campaign. The attack-minded left-back was a standout performer under manager Daniel Farke, contributing an outstanding 10 assists — the highest tally by any defender in the division. His ability to support the attack while maintaining defensive duties made him one of the team’s most valuable assets, and replacing him will be no easy task.

With Firpo seemingly on his way out, Leeds have no choice but to prioritise the signing of a new left-back before the new campaign begins. One name that has emerged as a serious option is Hugo Bueno of Wolverhampton Wanderers. According to a report from Spanish outlet Marca (20 June edition), the 22-year-old Spaniard has caught the attention of Leeds, who are keen to bring him in as Firpo’s successor.

Bueno, who spent last season on loan at Dutch side Feyenoord, enjoyed a productive spell in the Eredivisie, making 30 appearances and earning praise for his consistent performances. His successful year in the Netherlands has not gone unnoticed, and now both Feyenoord and Leeds appear to be interested in securing his services on a permanent basis.

However, Leeds may not find it easy to get a deal done quickly. Bueno is currently away with the Spanish national team for the Under-21 European Championship, and it is understood that he has yet to hold any serious discussions with Wolves regarding his future. The Midlands club, meanwhile, recently sold fellow left-back Rayan Ait-Nouri to Manchester City, potentially opening the door for Bueno to return and compete for a spot in new manager Vítor Pereira’s plans.

This uncertainty puts Leeds in a difficult position. On one hand, they are eager to finalise their summer business early to give Daniel Farke a complete squad to work with during pre-season. On the other, they may have to wait until Wolves clarify their intentions with Bueno, who could either be reintegrated into their first team or placed on the transfer list, depending on the club’s strategy.

Given these complications, Leeds will likely be keeping their options open. While Bueno is clearly a top target, the club must also consider alternative candidates in case Wolves decide to keep hold of the young defender or demand a fee beyond what Leeds are willing to pay.

In the coming weeks, much will depend on Wolves’ decision-making and Bueno’s personal preferences. For now, Leeds are monitoring the situation closely, knowing that addressing the left-back position is critical to their ambitions of staying in the Premier League. With Firpo’s exit looming and pre-season approaching fast, the pressure is on Leeds’ recruitment team to act decisively.