Leeds captain Liam Cooper is eager for a contract extension as he nears his tenth year with the club. Additionally, defenders Sam Byram and Jamie Shackleton are facing contract uncertainty as their deals expire soon.
Stuart Dallas has confirmed his retirement plans for this summer, while Luke Ayling and Ian Poveda are likely to secure permanent moves to their loan clubs, Middlesbrough and Sheffield Wednesday respectively.
Robin Koch has already arranged a permanent transfer to Frankfurt after his loan spell in the Bundesliga ends. Similarly, Cody Drameh and Lew Bate, currently on loan, are assessing their futures.
Drameh showed promise at Birmingham City, although his form dipped towards the season’s end. Meanwhile, 21-year-old midfielder Bate impressed during his loan stint at MK Dons in the latter part of the season.
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An update from The Yorkshire Evening Post reveals that Bate, once highly regarded, is now anticipated to depart Leeds in the summer. Despite the initial hype surrounding his talent when he joined from Chelsea in 2021, Bate’s limited first-team opportunities and his loan experience in League One suggest he may not be offered a new contract.
Marcelo Bielsa previously praised Bate’s abilities, highlighting his ball control and passing skills. However, it’s suggested that Bate needs to seek regular playing time at a higher level than League Two, perhaps in a top-end League One side or a Championship club.
