Leeds United: Mirco Antenucci 'happy' with life at Elland Road but future still uncertain

Leeds United striker Mirco Antenucci remains on course to leave the club despite committing to staying in west Yorkshire for the rest of this season. The Italian was understood to be seeking an exit from Elland Road in January but has stayed to see out his contract.

Owner Massimo Cellino suggested on deadline day (1 February) that the 31-year-old wanted to leave the club, but the forward was unable to agree to a route out of The Whites. Antenucci is out of contract at the end of the season and is now free to negotiate with other teams as he prepares to leave for free.

The former Catania and Torini frontman has scored five goals in 11 Championship starts this term for a Leeds side which are hovering in mid-table. But despite having remained with the club beyond the transfer window, the player's agent says his long-term future is clouded in uncertainty.

"Mirco is very happy to stay at ‎Leeds, of course, in such a big and historical club, challenging in the Championship and still in the FA Cup," representative Silvio Pagliari said, according to the Yorkshire Evening Post. "About his future – [let's see] at the end of the season. Now it is too early. Let's see what happens."

After bringing in five players on permanent and loan deals during the January window, Leeds were unable to add to their squad on deadline day despite manager Steve Evans being keen on signing a striker. Defender Sam Byram was the highest profile departure but the club did keep hold of midfielder Lewis Cook, who rebuffed constant interest in his services.

"Some people make that choice to move and it doesn't always work out for them," he said, according to the Yorkshire Evening Post. "At the moment I feel like I'm enjoying my football. Leeds are a big club as it is. I love playing for Leeds at the moment. Maybe for some people the speculation might be a bit disruptive but not really for me. I just focus on my game and playing for Leeds. That's it."