Leeds United secure another agreement with 12-goal winger today – Mike McGrath

Leeds United Secure Dan James with New Contract Extension Ahead of Premier League Return

Leeds United have successfully reached an agreement with Welsh winger Dan James over a new long-term contract, effectively extending his stay at Elland Road beyond the summer of 2026. This comes as a significant development for the Yorkshire club, who are preparing for a return to Premier League football and seeking to retain key players amidst a busy summer transfer window.

James had entered the final 12 months of the five-year deal he initially signed after arriving from Manchester United in 2021 under Marcelo Bielsa, in a move worth around £25 million. With uncertainty looming over his future, the club has acted swiftly to ensure the 26-year-old remains part of their project moving forward.

While Leeds continue to explore transfer market opportunities to bolster their squad for top-flight competition, securing the future of current assets is seen as an equally important aspect of their off-field business. Just this week, the departure of left-back Junior Firpo on a free transfer highlighted the club’s evolving wage structure under the ownership of 49ers Enterprises, which has prompted a more performance-reflective approach to contract renewals.

According to The Telegraph’s Mike McGrath, James has now agreed to new terms, though the precise duration and financial details of the new contract have not yet been disclosed. It’s understood that wages may have been adjusted from his original Old Trafford deal, as part of the club’s ongoing efforts to align salaries with player importance and contribution.

The 2024/25 campaign was a breakthrough season for James, marking the most productive spell of his career to date. He contributed an impressive 12 goals and nine assists across all competitions, playing a pivotal role in Leeds’ promotion push. His performances earned him a nomination for the Championship Player of the Season, underlining just how vital he was to Daniel Farke’s system.

Despite the step up in competition, James is still expected to be an important member of the squad as Leeds brace for a challenging Premier League campaign. His electric pace, relentless work rate, and pressing intensity are well-suited for a team likely to face long spells without the ball against top-tier opposition.

While there’s no certainty yet over whether James will command a regular starting berth in the top flight, the club clearly values his versatility and impact enough to ensure he remains part of the long-term picture.

Letting a player of James’ calibre run down his contract and depart for free in 12 months would have been a significant setback, especially given his recent contributions. This new deal, therefore, represents a proactive and strategic move by the club—both to safeguard his value and to maintain continuity in a squad that needs the right blend of experience, quality, and hunger to survive and thrive back in the Premier League.