Leeds are trying to bring a new goalkeeper to the club
James Smailes Head of All Out Rugby League and Yorkshire sport at Reach plc
05:00, 13 Jul 2026
Zion Suzuki
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Zion Suzuki turned down Manchester United in 2023(Image: Garry Lotulung/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Leeds United's need for a new goalkeeper is becoming more pressing with each passing day. The Whites last week announced a new deal for Alex Cairns, with the 33-year-old veteran agreeing a new two-year contract at Elland Road.
With Lucas Perri still in the building, Leeds have two senior players on the books as pre-season begins this week. However, the departure of Ilan Meslier and Karl Darlow as free agents has left a significant hole in the squad, one which could be felt even more so should Perri depart, with Italian side Torino interested in a potential loan deal for a player who quickly fell out of favour at Elland Road last season.
It's a situation the Whites are trying to address, with securing a new goalkeeper a priority. Leeds' search for a new shot-stopper is understood to have played a part in Darlow rejecting a new contract, with Leeds unable to guarantee him the number one role at the start of the season.
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Japan international Zion Suzuki is the man believed to be at the top of Leeds' wanted list, however they are not alone in their interest in the Parma player, who has risen even further to prominence after a good World Cup with his country this summer.
Aston Villa are also known to be interested, but now it has emerged fellow Premier League side Newcastle United could be about to enter the market for the player, while Paris St Germain have also been credited with interest in the past 24 hours.
La Gazzetta Dello Sport have reported an 'auction' is now seemingly ongoing for Suzuki, with Parma delighted as the price is set to rise potentially beyond £30m for the player. Parma are welcoming players back for the start of pre-season today, however Suzuki is not expected to be among them after being given time off following the World Cup.
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