Lukas Nmecha's 'most likely destination' revealed as Leeds exit edges closer

Lukas Nmecha is eyeing a return to the Bundesliga as he edges closer to leaving Leeds United, sources have told Football Insider.

The 27-year-old is out of contract at the end of the season, and talks have yet to take place over a potential renewal, with many expecting him to assess his options.

A number of clubs across European football are believed to be keeping tabs on the striker's future, and he could even agree a pre-contract in January to leave Elland Road.

As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider's Transfer Insider podcast, Nmecha is eyeing a return to his native Germany, where he previously thrived at VfL Wolfsburg.

That is despite links with a number of other clubs, as well as the possibility he could stay in English football, with Leeds open to his departue if he wishes to move on.

Nmecha has struggled in Daniel Farke's side so far this season, has played just 91 minutes of Premier League football across six games, and is now eyeing a move away.

When is Lukas Nmecha expected to leave Leeds United?

Football Insider revealed on 19 October that Nmecha is open to signing a pre-contract agreement in January as he eyes a move away from English football and the Premier League.

Things haven't necessarily gone to plan for Nmecha at Elland Road, given his lack of playing time despite Leeds' striker issues, and he is already eyeing a move away.

A return to the Bundesliga is now considered most likely for the striker, who plans to move back to Germany, where there is said to be interest from multiple top clubs.

Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: "Nmecha is in a good position right now with his contract coming to an end next summer.

"There is interest in him as a potential free agent, there's no doubts about that. He's still very highly regarded in Germany after his spell at Wolfsburg before he joined Leeds.

"I think that is his most likely destination, a return to the Bundesliga, and that's where he will be looking to move if he does decide to leave Leeds.

"If he is to leave Leeds United, whether that's in January or next summer, he probably wants to be moving to a club where he'll be playing regularly."

Could Nmecha sign a new contract at Leeds?

While there is a growing expectation that Nmecha will leave Leeds upon the expiry of his contract, the possibility he could stay at Elland Road has not been completely ruled out.

Farke's squad is lacking options up front, where Dominic Calvert-Lewin leads the line with little backup, and that could push Leeds to keep their current backup option.

Former Man United scout Mick Brown told Football Insider on 1 October that Leeds are optimistic they could convince Nmecha to stay in a supporting role.

Farke sees the striker's role as a capable backup as a key asset, and would "love" to extend his stay, although they do understand it may not be possible.

The decision will ultimately be made by Nmecha, who is not believed to be especially keen on remaining if he is not playing regular football as part of the starting XI.