Leeds United suffered a major blow last week when it emerged that Karl Darlow is on the verge of joining Manchester United on a free transfer.
The experienced goalkeeper became a free agent after his contract at Elland Road expired at the end of June. Leeds had been confident he would remain at the club and were hopeful he would sign a new two-year deal.
Instead, the 35-year-old has chosen to continue his career at Old Trafford, with only the final formalities of the move still to be completed.
His expected departure leaves Daniel Farke with a significant problem to solve in the goalkeeping department. Leeds are now stepping up their search for reinforcements and have already drawn up a shortlist of potential replacements.
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Leeds United express interest in Dutch goalkeeper
Darlow’s departure, coupled with the speculation around Lucas Perri’s future at Elland Road, means Leeds may need to sign two goalkeepers this summer.
Leeds have continued to hold an interest in Parma’s Zion Suzuki, and Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford has also been heavily linked with a move to Elland Road.
However, the Whites have a tight budget, and the club are considering several left-field options through Red Bull’s vast scouting network this summer.
And according to Dutch magazine Voetbal International, Leeds have their eyes on FC Volendam goalkeeper Kayne van Oevelen as a serious option.
The club have made a move by expressing an interest in signing the 22-year-old Dutch goalkeeper in the ongoing transfer window.
His performances in the Netherlands have turned heads in Europe, and Valencia and Ipswich Town are also interested in the Dutchman this summer.
Van Oevelen is a talented young goalkeeper who has impressed the Leeds recruitment team with his performances last season.
The Dutchman is also likely to be cheaper compared to goalkeepers such as Suzuki and Trafford.
Kayne van Oevelen fits the 49ers’ transfer strategy
The 49ers have already made a significant financial commitment this summer, handing 29-year-old Harry Wilson a substantial signing-on fee and a lucrative wage package to secure his arrival on a free transfer.
However, Leeds’ owners are placing greater emphasis on signing younger players who fit within the club’s financial model, both in terms of transfer fees and wages.
Kayne van Oevelen is the profile of player the 49ers would prefer to bring to Leeds – young players who are ready to prove themselves in England and a strong resale value.
It remains to be seen whether Leeds act on their interest in the Dutchman and make a concerted effort to sign the 22-year-old this summer.
