Leeds United eye sensational 23-year-old ‘giant’ as contract talks continue

After finishing 14th in their first season back in the Premier League, Leeds United have already shifted their focus towards the summer transfer window.

Daniel Farke has openly called for greater ambition from the board as he looks to strengthen the squad and help the club continue progressing next season.

Meanwhile, Paraag Marathe has highlighted the need for a measured and sustainable approach, especially as the Premier League’s Squad Cost Ratio rules now play a major role in club finances.

Leeds are almost certain to bring in a new goalkeeper amid talks over extending Karl Darlow’s contract, and they have a new goalkeeping target on their shortlist.

Braga’s Lukas Hornicek on Leeds United’s radar

Lukas Hornicek has turned heads in Europe with his performances for Braga this season and has been linked with a move to the Premier League.

The 6’5 goalkeeper is seen as someone with the physicality and goalkeeping chops to handle the more physical Premier League if he moves to England this summer.

According to Portuguese outlet Bola na Rede’s Lei do Mercado program, Leeds are interested in securing a deal for the signature of Hornicek this summer.

Leeds scouts have been watching the 23-year-old Czech goalkeeper this season and have been impressed with his performances for Braga, who finished fourth in the Portuguese top tier.

Hornicek has registered 24 clean sheets in 55 appearances in all competitions this season, and this has led to Leeds being keen on signing him.

However, there are still no negotiations between the two clubs and Braga are expected to play hardball in any talks to sell the goalkeeper this summer.

Karl Darlow’s future is still unresolved

Leeds have a big decision to make on their goalkeeping options for next season. The arrival of a new goalkeeper will lead to the departure of either Darlow or Lucas Perri.

The Welshman has impressed between the sticks this season, but he is out of contract in the summer, and no new deal is in place between Leeds and Darlow.

Perri struggled to provide any security to the defence following his arrival last year and has not played a Premier League game since the end of December.

If Darlow signs a new deal, the Brazilian will almost certainly leave to make way for the arrival of a new goalkeeper.

Leeds are in talks with Darlow’s representatives over a new deal, but no agreement is still in place.