Credit: Imago

Jacob Raw

Wed 20 May 2026 21:40, UK

Ethan Ampadu has hinted that he will be staying at Leeds United next season, with speculation growing around a new contract.

The club captain became a two-time Player of the Year winner after being presented with the prestigious award at the Whites’ end-of-season ceremony on Tuesday.

Ampadu has earned plaudits from fans, teammates, and pundits for not just consistent performances, but top-quality displays in the Premier League this season.

There were questions around the Welshman’s ability to make the step up to the top flight, but he now looks like someone who could lead the way for a new era under Daniel Farke in the top tier.

Ampadu has attracted interest from Premier League clubs, though Leeds are hopeful their midfielder will sign a new deal in LS11 this year.

Ethan Ampadu hints he’s here to say

There have been rumours that Ampadu will sign a new Leeds contract amid speculation that English sides could make a move for him this summer.

If the 25-year-old signed fresh terms at Elland Road, it would send out a message to interested clubs that the fan favourite is simply not for sale.

After being presented with his second Player of the Year award for Leeds, Ampadu sent a message to Whites fans, dropping a hint that this season won’t be his last in LS11.

Ampadu said: “I want to say a massive thank you for this award, you’ve [fans] been amazing as always, hopefully we can finish off well on Sunday and look forward to a big start next season.”

That smile at the end of the video paints a thousand words, as it looks like he may even know that contract news is coming soon amid speculation of his departure.

A long-term deal would almost certainly see Ampadu stay with the Whites for the foreseeable future.

Who would be next for contract after Ampadu?

The 49ers are set to sit down with Farke over the next few weeks to discuss a three-year vision, and with that will be aims, objectives, and transfer business.

Incomings and outgoings are expected at Elland Road, but dealing with player contracts is just as important, especially in the case of Ampadu.

However, the summer is usually the time where club’s hand their top stars new contracts, and Pascal Struijk could be next.

Pascal Struijk:

• Games played this season: 33
• Contract expires: June, 2027

This summer will see the Dutchman entering his final 12 months of his current deal, which is a trigger for Leeds to extend it if they see him as part of their long-term plans.

Struijk has been integral to Farke’s success at Elland Road, and it would be no surprise to see him handed new terms along with Ampadu.