Karl Darlow’s departure from Leeds United kicked up a series of events that eventually lead to the club making their big summer signing. Th 49ers landed James Trafford from Manchester City.
During last season, there were questions over who would be Leeds’ first choice going into the 2026/27 season.
Darlow staked his claim after benching Lucas Perri, performing extremely well in the second half of the campaign as the Whites finished in 14th place in the league. Fans thought the veteran would keep his place for the next season.
Unfortunately, the 35-year old looked elsewhere after he was not guaranteed to be a starter.
His exit alongside Illan Meslier meant Leeds had to accelerate plans to land a goalkeeper in the summer window.
And despite a few delays, the club did exactly just that. They signed James Trafford on a long-term deal from Manchester City for a club record fee of just over £40 million.
Leeds United demand key clause before transfer exit
James Trafford’s arrival has also given the club the green light to allow Lucas Perri to leave.
The Brazilian lost his place as number one last season despite being the big money summer signing. Italian side Torino got in touch this summer and pushed to sign him.
They have agreed personal terms, and Perri will now hope to complete his transfer with Trafford’s arrival.
However, this transfer could yet experience another delay following the latest news.
According to Wednesday’s print edition of Tuttosport – via Sports Witness, a deal has yet to be finalized for Leeds United goalkeeper Lucas Perri. Even though personal terms have been ticked, a few more things need to be settled.
Torino are discussing a loan deal with an option to buy for around £9.4 million.
The two parties are now discussing payment terms for for the buy option. Leeds United want a sell-on percentage, but the amount has not been revealed.
Perri is expected to arrive in Turin on Thursday for his medicals.
READ MORE: £10m Leeds United attacker makes major transfer demand to leave Elland Road
Lucas Perri’s exit will still go through
The timing of this news may confuse some Leeds fans, but as things stand it is very likely the deal is completed.
Lucas Perri wants to leave, and the club want to get rid of him. All they are working on now is to get a favourable deal when the clause comes in for him to permanently leave.
The 49ers want the deal done on their terms, and will get it down the line.
But for now there is no real danger that Perri remains at Elland Road after the transfer deadline.
Leeds are already working on signing a backup goalkeeper to provide support for new signing James Trafford.
