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Leeds United should consider letting Kemar Roofe stay even with unsigned contract

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Leeds must take a strong stance with Kemar Roofe.

Kemar Roofe before the SkyBet Championship playoff semi final match between Derby County and Leeds United at the Pride Park, Derby on Saturday 11th May 2019.

Leeds United are in a tricky position with Kemar Roofe – but the club’s decision should be an easy one.

Roofe is yet to agree terms to a new contract, and his current deal expires in June 2020.

Conventional wisdom would see Leeds cash in now rather than let him leave for free next summer. This would be a mistake.

Even if Leeds and Roofe are unable to agree terms on a new deal, Leeds must be prepared to keep him put, and risk him walking away for free.

Roofe is so important to Leeds’ success. He finished as the team’s top scorer, despite missing long stretches of action through injury.

Kemar Roofe of Leeds United is congratulated on scoring his second goal during the Sky Bet Championship match between Leeds United and Queens Park Rangers at Elland Road on December 08,...

HIs movement up front cannot be replicated by Leeds’ current options and he is going to be crucial if Leeds are to build on this season’s momentum.

To replace Roofe, it would cost millions. A similar fee to the one Leeds would receive. And there’s no guarantee his successor could have the same success.

If Leeds can win promotion, then Roofe will be more likely to want to re-sign anyway.

Leeds are ‘all in’ on Bielsa for one more season. It makes sense to tell Roofe to stay put regardless too.

Leeds United's Kemar Roofe goes close with a chance at the end of the first half, under pressure from Bristol City's Tomas Kalas during the Sky Bet Championship match between Leeds United...