In an exclusive interview with Football FanCast, former Leeds United player Carlton Palmer revealed his surprise over Marcelo Bielsa's contract situation at Elland Road.

Bielsa, who guided the Yorkshire club back to the Premier League after a 16-year absence, is out of contract in the summer and does not yet appear to be any closer to putting pen to paper on a new deal.

Currently on 35 points, Leeds look set to retain their status as an outfit in English football's top flight, a further display of just how well the Argentinian has done since succeeding Paul Heckingbottom back in 2018.

Given that success, Bielsa's contract dilemma has left Palmer scratching his head. Speaking on the matter exclusively with FFC, the ex-Leeds midfielder said:

"I'm a little bit surprised given he's got them promotion - and, you know, they're 11th in the Premier League - that he hasn't been tied down to a longer contract. I'm a little bit surprised.

"But maybe on both parts, you know, I would think that Bielsa would be looking and saying this - if he's going to kick on, he's going to need funds available to do that. And maybe they've said to him, listen, or both parties have said, listen, let's wait and see where we are at the end of the season."

Bielsa appears settled at Leeds, with his time at Elland Road being his longest reign at a club. Considering that, and how well he has done in the dugout overall, a contract extension looks to be in everyone's interest.

And under the former Lille boss, there is no reason why Leeds cannot continue to grow. The Whites have really impressed in the Premier League this season with him at the helm, boasting a very good record in front of goal.