The search for a new goalkeeper has so far proved to be difficult for Leeds United, with all of the club’s options either being signed by other teams or preferring to stay put.
Adam Underwood has moved quickly to make three signings ahead of a return to pre-season on July 7. But the club are expected to make plenty more, likely pushing the number of incomings to double digits.
One requirement this summer will be a goalkeeper. Alex Cairns, Illan Meslier and Karl Darlow are all out of contract at the end of the 2025-26 season, with Meslier expected to leave Leeds according to Phil Hay.
Caoimhin Kelleher has ignored Leeds for Brentford, while Nick Pope seems happy to stay at Newcastle even if The Toon sign James Trafford. Sunderland are closing in on a deal for Chelsea’s Djordje Petrovic.
Lucas Perri holds a thumbs up during Lyon vs Lille in Ligue 1.
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Leeds United want Lyon’s Lucas Perri, but Galatasaray are on pole
In light of Lyon’s relegation to Ligue 2, plenty of the French club’s players are being linked with the exit door. Lyon have appealed the DNGC’s decision, who are the French Footballing Finance organisation.
LeedsUnited.News understands they will be successful with the appeal, but Lyon may still have to sell and reports in France claim Leeds have made a £13m move for Perri a ‘priority’. The YEP say he is a target.
However, there is plenty of interest in the Brazilian. BeIN Sports in Turkey claim Galatasaray are discussing a move with Lyon and have agreed personal terms with Perri, ahead of joining the Turkish champions.
Illan Meslier ahead of a game against Preston.
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Paulo Fonseca said Lucas Perri is ‘the best goalkeeper in world’
Interestingly, Lyon manager Paulo Fonseca was once targeted by Victor Orta to take over at Leeds but a move never materialised. Lyon have since hired the Portuguese manager, who secured a place in Europe.
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Perri was a big part of that and in March, Fonseca was quoted by the GFFN as saying Perri is “the best goalkeeper in the world”. This is despite a failed loan spell at Crystal Palace when Perri was very young.
Leeds continue to remain interested in Perri and he is certainly on the list. Whether the appeal regarding Lyon’s relegation alters Leeds’ interest remains to be seen, but Leeds are certainly after a goalkeeper.