Ethan Ampadu takes rightful spot in Leeds ranks after £31.2m reveal

atfer Ethan Ampadu's new contract announcement was one of the best ways Leeds United could enter the upcoming season.

The Welsh international is a fan favourite among the Elland Road faithful and Daniel Farke has often made his importance clear.

Losing Ampadu would have been a major blow for the LS11 side, so the news of a new deal has provided the Whites with added security.

However, the true value Ampadu within the Leeds squad has just emerged.

The Peacocks' captain has soared to the top of one ranking following his new deal.

And, truthfully, he has taken his rightful spot at the peak of the mountain.

What ranking does Ethan Ampadu top at Leeds United?

When a player is on a long-term contract, the value of their potential sale increases more than it would be with just one or two years left.

And in the case of Ampadu, that has become quite clear amid this latest reveal.

At the end of the season, it was Noah Okafor who was listed as Leeds' most valuable player according to CIES Football Observatory.

However, the landscape has since changed, and it is now the Whites' captain that holds that honour.

The fair market price tool shares that Ampadu is now worth between £26.8million and £31.2m.

Previously, Okafor was ranked on the lower side of £20m.

In truth, this soaring in the rankings by Ampadu is thoroughly deserved, and while he has been given a value, Farke will believe the 25-year-old is priceless.

The central midfielder is vital to Leeds' style of play with Farke previously stating in 2024: "He is my most important player."

Now, his most valuable player status has been signified.

What makes Ampadu so important for Leeds?

Amapdu's importance becomes clear in his numbers from the 2025-2026 season.

For Leeds, no other player won more duels (184) than the Wales international.

Additionally, no member of Farke's side completed more tackles (81) than Ampadu.

Ampadu's willingness to get on the ball and keep play ticking is also evident in his passing numbers.

He made 1731 passes last campaign, with only Pascal Struijk's 1839 passes coming out on top.

Ampadu is central to Leeds' play, and he leads by example in his ball-winning and individual battles.

It is no wonder he has emerged as Leeds United's MVP.