After being released by Norwich City at the end of last season, Byram has been training with the Whites this summer. He impressed at left-back during Leeds’ pre-season win over Hearts.
Farke is expected to be without one of his left-back alternatives, Junior Firpo, after the Dominican Republic international suffered an injury in pre-season, leaving Byram as a possible replacement.
When asked if the 29-year-old will be granted a contract, Farke told Leeds Live, “We haven’t discussed it yet, but we know what we’ve got.” Sam has demonstrated a positive attitude, is an experienced player, a homegrown player, and a free agent, therefore I don’t see many grounds against them.
“So it’s not a big, big topic and not a big issue, but we’re all happy that he’s gone through this pre-season without any injuries and also, we need to listen a little bit to what he thinks and what he wants and then we’ll come to a conclusion, I think, over the next week.”
Leeds United are a bit short of bodies in defence, especially as the Elland Road exodus continues this summer, with departures seemingly never stopping in this transfer window and Byram offers a level of safety few signings can match.
The defender already has over 150 Championship appearances under his belt and played under Farke in both the Championship and the Premier League while at Norwich, where both the player and the manager experienced plenty of success.
While he isn’t the type of acquisition that will get fans excited at Elland Road, he will provide valuable defensive cover and expertise as Leeds attempt to reclaim their place in the Premier League.
The Whites’ incoming business has been particularly savvy this summer, with the versatile Ethan Ampadu and the bargain signing of Karl Darlow, and Byram has the potential to be a similarly astute purchase.
Whether or not he accepts a professional contract with Leeds United, he has impressed in pre-season and will have no trouble finding a new team, whether at Leeds United or elsewhere.
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