Leeds United are preparing for discussions to present Jamie Shackleton with a fresh contract. The current agreement at Elland Road is due to expire at the conclusion of the season, but the club is eager to extend his terms in order to prevent losing him without compensation. It is understood that manager Daniel Farke has been impressed with the 24-year-old, despite his inability to secure a regular starting position for the team aiming for promotion.
Shackleton has not been selected to start a league match for Leeds since their 4-1 triumph against Huddersfield Town in October. However, he was included in the lineup for their FA Cup fourth-round draw against Plymouth Argyle last month (27 January). Throughout this season, he has made 13 appearances across all competitions, contributing one assist in their 4-3 victory over Ipswich Town in August.
The Englishman was featured in seven out of Leeds’ first nine Championship games this season, but he lost his place to 17-year-old sensation Archie Gray, who transitioned from midfield to right-back. Shackleton joined the academy of the Yorkshire club in 2006 and has since accumulated 92 appearances in various competitions. While primarily a midfielder, Shackleton has predominantly been deployed as a right-back this season. He has also been utilized as a left-back, central midfielder, and right midfielder.
Following their 1-0 win against Bristol City at Ashton Gate on Friday (2 February), Leeds currently occupy the third position in the Championship table. Their upcoming fixture is a replay of their fourth-round FA Cup match against Plymouth Argyle on Tuesday evening (6 February). Additionally, it has been reported that Leeds United have surpassed West Ham in the pursuit of a significant deal.