Ex-Leeds United star Liam Cooper leaves CSKA Sofia - Sheffield Wednesday, Hull City & Blackpool should be on red alert | OneFootball

Liam Cooper is on the lookout for his next club after it was announced that he had left Bulgarian outfit CSKA Sofia.

Former Leeds United captain Liam Cooper is on the lookout for his next club after he agreed to leave Bulgarian outfit CSKA Sofia.

The 33-year-old is a firm favourite at Elland Road after his role in helping the side to the Premier League under Marcelo Bielsa, whilst he was also a regular as they finished ninth on their return to the top-flight.

However, Cooper fell out of favour under Daniel Farke, and it was confirmed in September 2024 that the centre-back had decided to move overseas for the first time in his career, as he joined CSKA Sofia.

Liam Cooper leaves CSKA Sofia

His time in Bulgaria is over now, though, as the capital city club confirmed they had reached an agreement with the player to mutually terminate his contract.

That means he departs after just one full season, but Cooper will still feel he has a lot to offer in the game.

Therefore, a return to England could suit the defender, and here we look at THREE EFL clubs who could benefit from bringing the Scotland international to their club…

Hull City

Cooper was born in Hull and came through the ranks with the Tigers, so the prospect of returning to the Championship side would surely appeal to the defender.

From Hull’s perspective, it’s a move that could make sense as well. Their issues with the EFL are well-known, and they are currently restricted by who they can bring in.

So, they will be monitoring the free agent market, and Cooper would add experience and know-how to the backline. Even with the arrival of Semi Ajayi, Hull are short in defence after losing Sean McLoughlin and Alfie Jones, so Cooper would boost numbers.

Sheffield Wednesday

Wednesday are a Championship club in a bigger crisis than Hull, and they too are operating under a transfer embargo, which means they can only bring in free agents.

The chaos at Hillsborough means a host of players have left the club in recent days and weeks, with Michael Ihiekwe and Akin Famewo among the defenders to move on.

In truth, the Owls could do with strengthening all over the park, but a central defender would be a bonus, and having someone with Cooper’s experience would be a massive help during these challenging times.

Not only would he add grit and steel defensively, but he is a leader that will be a positive influence on and off the pitch in what will be a difficult campaign for the Owls.

Blackpool

Whilst Cooper is likely to have Championship interest, he may consider dropping to League One for a longer contract and if he will get first-team football.

Blackpool could offer the defender just that, with Steve Bruce looking to build a team that can win promotion as he gears up for his first full season in charge.

So, he will want players for the here and now, and Cooper would add quality to the defensive unit, and, as outlined above, he would bring leadership and his promotion experience would help in the dressing room.