Daniel Farke could lose the Leeds United player he wants to keep, despite conversations about staying

According to Beren Cross, Jamie Shackleton’s departure from Leeds United this summer should “surprise nobody” despite being given a new contract.

The Leeds Live writer told the outlet’s website on June 10 that the 24-year-old’s departure was still a possibility, following talks over a contract extension were confirmed on the club’s retained list (7 June).

Shackleton made 15 appearances in all competitions for Daniel Farke last season, and the German is claimed to be “happy” to keep him as cover at full-back and midfield.

Cody Drameh was also offered a new contract, but solely as compensation for his probable departure, while Shackleton‘s future remains uncertain.

Cross writes, “The manager would be glad to keep Shackleton as an option in both full-back and midfield, but at 24, his need for regular minutes may outweigh Drameh’s.

“Shackleton has never made more than seven league starts in a season for Leeds and, with his prime years on the horizon, a fresh start elsewhere should surprise nobody.”

Jamie Shackleton offered Leeds United a contract.

Given the number of injuries Farke had to deal with at full-back last season, it’s no wonder that he wants to keep a player who can play on either side.

With Connor Roberts‘ loan from Burnley ending, the scenario is once again looking bleak, particularly on the right, especially now that teenage phenom and regular starter last season Archie Gray is rumoured to be leaving for large money this summer.

On the left, Junior Firpo has been suggested by The Athletic’s Phil Hay [Square Ball, 8 June] to be sent back to Spain, so it would surely bring some piece of mind if the manager knew he had Shackleton on his team.

However, at his age, it could be another step backwards at a time when he needs to be playing more often.

Shackleton made 36 Championship games on loan at Millwall two seasons ago, albeit mostly from the bench, so his lack of involvement last season will have been frustrating.

He will have to analyse whether the weakening of a club that had just been relegated from the Premier League and had plans to return immediately will provide him with enough opportunities, and if not, he will enter the free agent market.