Journalist claims Leeds United have "problem" with Junior Firpo | OneFootball

Journalist Graeme Bailey has revealed that Junior Firpo would be one of Leeds United's highest earners in the Premier League if they secure a return there at the end of this term, speaking to Leeds United News.

At this point, it's still unclear whether the Whites will secure promotion, with Leicester City and Ipswich Town in a fierce battle with Daniel Farke's side for an automatic promotion spot.

Southampton aren't out of the race yet either and have shown that they can go unbeaten for months in the Championship, so the West Yorkshire side face a huge battle in their quest to seal a top-flight return.

However, with the experience they have in their squad and the fact they have gone unbeaten in the league in 2024, they are probably the favourites out of the automatic promotion-chasing quartet to go on and secure a top-two place at the end of the season.

Graeme Bailey on Leeds United's Junior Firpo problem

If they are promoted, they will have plenty of issues to sort out, including the futures of those currently out on loan and the future of their current loanees who are heading back to their parent clubs at this point.

Recruiting players will be extremely important, but sorting out their current players' futures will also be vital, with left-back Firpo one of many first-teamers who have previously been linked with a move away from Elland Road.

Bailey believes Leeds could benefit from an upgrade on the ex-Barcelona man at some point, who would be earning a huge amount next season if promotion is achieved.

He told : "The problem with Firpo is he’s on good money.

"If you are back in the Premier League with him, he is on very good money and will be one of Leeds’ highest earners in the Premier League, there is no doubt about that.

"He came from La Liga, and ideally you do want a young, upcoming full-back to come in to replace Firpo, but you are not desperate.

"If you started next season with Firpo in the Premier League, ideally you want an upgrade, but he’s not a complete disaster.

"I think the club are pretty happy where you are. The best way to describe it is quality over quantity for Leeds this summer."

Leeds United must address their left-back department during the summer

Firpo could be a good backup option, but with the player on a high wage if they go up, he's probably a player the Whites could benefit from offloading.

Sam Byram is another left-back option, but the Whites need a starter in this position if they are promoted.

If they don't strengthen this area, this could be a weak spot that Premier League sides attack next term.

They will have the finances to recruit an upgrade if they are promoted.

But Firpo needs to be offloaded as well if his wage is going to hamper the Whites.