Leeds United v Everton - Premier League Illan Meslier of Leeds United congratulates the new number one, Lucas Perri of Leeds United, after the Premier League match between Leeds United and Everton at Elland Road in Leeds, United Kingdom, on August 18, 2025. Leeds West Yorkshire United Kingdom PUBLICATIONxNOTxINxFRA Copyright: xMIxNewsx originalFilename:fletcher-leedsuni250818_nprnK.jpg
Leeds United go into this summer with some urgent needs across their squad. The 49ers’ aim should be to improve the team ahead of their next season.
When newly-promoted clubs survive their first year, the key is to remain beyond the second season. Most teams make the mistake of thinking their squad is good enough, and things backfire quickly.
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That is what happened after Marcelo Bielsa kept Leeds up in 2020, and the club failed to back him the following season. Lack of investment lead to a horrid two seasons before they were relegated again.
Daniel Farke has already spoken out about this as talks over his future at the club have emerged. His contract is up next year, and many expect him to be handed an extension ahead of next season.
Leeds United could be handed huge chance after latest news
One area of huge concern is the goalkeeping department; Leeds United could have just one goalkeeper under contract next month. As things stand, Karl Darlow, Alex Cairns and Illan Meslier are all set to leave.
Lucas Perri would be the only goalkeeper under contract, and the club already have their reservations concerning the Brazilian after his first season.
But that could change with this latest news; Newcastle writer Lee Ryder has confirmed that Aaron Ramsdale will return to Southampton after his loan deal expires.
As things stand, no deal has been agreed. And things look less likely that the Magpies will pursue a permanent deal as they are looking at other goalkeeping targets outside Ramsdale.
This could open the door for Leeds United, who were linked with signing the England keeper last year. The 49ers eventually decided on signing Lucas Perri during that summer window.
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Leeds must keep Karl Darlow at Elland Road
Looking at the market heading into the summer, there are not enough goalkeepers that can be considered an upgrade on the options at Leeds United.
And the ones that could move would cost a fortune; something the 49ers would want to avoid after signing Lucas Perri for a huge fee.
So if there are no options at an affordable range, then the club must do all they can to keep Karl Darlow. He has proven this past season that he is a very capable starter.
The smart choice would be to keep him around this season, and hope a permanent resolution can be found by the club going forward.