Leeds United would have thought they solved their goalkeeping problem over the summer. After what happened between Daniel Farke and Illan Meslier in the last campaign, fans knew there would be a change.
Meslier sat out the final games of the campaign, and the Whites ended up winning the league title. Leeds splashed the cash in the transfer window, signing Lucas Perri from Lyon for a hefty fee. The Brazilian came in and was expected to be number one, but after a mixed start, there were questions. Farke made the bld decision to go with Karl Darlow after Perri made some errors late in the year.
James Trafford set for summer exit
The Leeds United goalkeeping situation seems unstable, but could come at the right time for another investment. Per Football Insider, James Trafford is set to leave Manchester City this summer. And his potential destination is said to be Newcastle, even thought there has been no concrete agreement. The Magpies have plans to sign a new goalkeeper this summer, and it is believed the City star is high on their list.
| Statistic | Total |
|---|---|
| Games | 13 |
| Saves | 30 |
| Save Percentage | 78.9% |
| Goals Prevented | +1.89 |
| Clean Sheets | 6 |
Trafford joined City before the season began, with aims of being the club’s new number one before they decided to sign Gianluigi Donnarumma. Pep Guardiola has opted for the Italian for large parts of the season, even though James Trafford was in goal for their successful Carabao cup campaign. He could leave the Etihad this summer, even if Manchester City will make it difficult.
Leeds United need to upgrade on Karl Darlow
Karl Darlow has been in goal for Leeds United since January, with Farke dropping Lucas Perri. The Welshman has been a solid presence since then and has given some great performances. His contract is up in the summer, and after a solid campaign, it is believed he will attract interest from many sides across England. There is a high chance Leeds will renew his current deal, but the club need to look to the future. Opting to sign James Trafford on a permanent deal, if he is interested in a move, is a much smarter decision than to extend Darlow who is nearing the end of his career. The club can solve a long term solution by making the right choice when the transfer window comes around.
| Statistic | Total |
|---|---|
| Games | 15 |
| Goals Conceded | 19 |
| Clean Sheets | 3 |
| Goals Prevented | -2.85 |
| Saves per Game | 2.45 |
