Brenden Aaronson given bargaining chip in Leeds talks as his stats emerge from win vs Liverpool

Brenden Aaronson was a standout for Leeds United as they beat Liverpool 4-2 in a pre-season friendly in Chicago on Sunday.

The Whites had been 2-0 down after goals from Luke Chambers and Florian Wirtz in the first half, but Aaronson halved the deficit before Sean Longstaff and Dominic Calvert-Lewin's brace turned the game on its head.

It has been a positive summer for Daniel Farke's side, who have brought in Tarik Muharemovic and Harry Wilson already, with James Trafford set to join them in a deal worth around £40million.

But Aaronson's contract continues to prove a concern while he performs like he did on Sunday, with just one year remaining allowing clubs to circle.

Football Insider has revealed that Leeds are now set to re-open talks with the 25-year-old over a new deal and will hope to reach an agreement in the coming weeks.

Especially after Sunday, with Aaronson returning to the team in style after the World Cup.

Brenden Aaronson's superb stats vs Liverpool

Aaronson has often split opinion at Leeds in the four years since his arrival, but he has undoubtedly stepped up in recent years.

The midfielder initially struggled to adapt to English football, and was sent on loan to Union Berlin in the 2023-24 season.

Upon his return, however, Aaronson scored nine goals in the Championship and last season, he netted four and assisted five in the Premier League.

His goal against Liverpool was well taken, sliding under Giorgi Mamardashvili just 15 minutes after his introduction.

The American picked up an assist too, breaking through down the left and cutting back for Longstaff.

With 45 minutes on the pitch, Aaronson also got his defensive work done. The midfielder completed a tackle, an interception, three recoveries and won four duels.

What Aaronson has said about his future

Should Leeds fail to agree a new deal with Aaronson, they risk losing him for nothing at all.

The midfielder will be able to sign a pre-contract with another team in January before leaving next summer.

However, Aaronson and Leeds both appear to have some confidence that an agreement will be found.

Speaking in May, the American said: "I think it's just a great club, from top to bottom. It's been an amazing fit for me. I want to play here for as long as I can and create the best moments that I can.”