The goalkeeping situation at Leeds United has drastically changed over the last 12 months. Going into this past campaign, the Whites could boast of four first team options.
On their return to the Premier League, the ownership went out and splashed the cash on a new goalkeeper.
Lucas Perri came in and was immediately installed as first choice, after Illan Meslier was benched for the promotion run-in. Leeds went into last season with Perri, Darlow, Meslier and Cairns as options.
But coming into this summer, the club knew their situation.
Darlow, Meslier and Cairns were all out of contract. But Cairns signed an extension, Meslier left and Darlow decided to join Manchester United.
This left a lot of confusion at Elland Road ahead of the new season.
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Leeds United went into pre-season with just two first team keepers; Perri and Cairns.
The Brazilian was clearly not going to be first choice after being dropped in the middle of last season. And Cairns had close to zero chance of becoming number one this summer.
Things have changed over the last few weeks with the arrival of James Trafford.
Leeds now have a number one ahead of the new campaign, and the 49ers are already looking to sign a backup keeper. This lead them to show interest in a move for Frankfurt’s Michael Zetterer.
The 31-year old is seen as an option to replace Lucas Perri, who will be leaving.
According to Absolut Fussball (via Bulinews), the German stopper has no intention of leaving the Bundesliga side this summer. The report indicates that the veteran firmly believes he can challenge for the number one spot going into this season.
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Leeds United need to find a backup goalkeeper
A backup goalkeeper is a priority ahead of the new campaign.
Perri will leave, with Torino closing in on sealing his transfer after it had stalled over the last couple of weeks.
Trafford will be the number one, but Leeds need someone to be his deputy.
As things stand, that is Alex Cairns. And despite how good he looked in pre-season, the 33-year old will not be a suitable option at Premier League level.
Leeds need to find a goalkeeper willing to be on the bench, and not leave like Karl Darlow. He must also come with a low transfer fee or on a free transfer like the club have done in recent years.
Spending more money on a backup keeper after splashing £40 million on James Trafford is not a wise option.
