Leeds United manager Daniel Farke, Leeds chairman Praag Marathe in a circular insert.
Leeds United looked to have turned their attention to the summer transfer window, with a sensational potential deal lined up.
Leeds United’s plans for the summer transfer window are taking shape, with a clear priority already identified. The club views resolving the goalkeeping position as critical for long-term Premier League stability.
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Current number one Lucas Perri, a £13.9m signing last summer, faces a battle to salvage his Elland Road career after a difficult start.
Sources indicate manager Daniel Farke has been “notably underwhelmed” by the Brazilian’s performances. Perri began the campaign as the first choice ‘keeper but has since lost his place to Karl Darlow. This uncertainty around the position has made signing a reliable, commanding goalkeeper a top objective for the upcoming window, provided the club maintains its top-flight status.
Leeds reportedly interested in Manchester City keeper
With the situation in mind, Leeds have positioned themselves as ‘serious contenders’ for Manchester City’s James Trafford, according to TEAMtalk.
Leeds are said to be very keen on the highly-rated stopper, viewing him as an ideal addition to provide reliability and commanding presence between the posts.
The 23-year-old England international is keen to leave the Etihad in search of regular first-team football, having found opportunities limited behind Gianluigi Donnarumma.
For Leeds, a move is heavily contingent on one factor: Premier League survival. Sources suggest the club “would stand a strong chance of winning the pursuit if they secure Premier League survival this season.” Without top-flight status and the financial power it brings, attracting a player from Manchester City with many suitors would be off the table.
The competition will be fierce. Tottenham Hotspur, Aston Villa, and Newcastle United are all reportedly monitoring the situation. Manchester City are also understood to value Trafford highly and may demand a significant fee, potentially in excess of £30 million.
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James Trafford would be an incredible signing for Leeds
To be able to sign a player of Trafford’s quality would be an extreme signal of ambition from the 49ers as they look to establish Leeds as Premier League regulars, and the safe pair of hands the English shot-stopper would provide would certainly aid them in their goal.
Leeds fans are firmly aware of Trafford’s talents, with the ‘keeper having an immense season as Leeds battled Burnley for the Championship title last season.
James Trafford’s stats for Burnley – Championship 2024/25 season
Stat Value
Goals prevented 12.82
Penalties saved 2/2
Clean sheets 29
(Sofascore)
A goalkeeper of this standard would be a complete game-changer for Farke’s side, and if the 49ers could secure a deal, they may have finally found a long-term solution for the goalkeeping vacancy at Elland Road.
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