It looks like Leeds United will be back to square one at the end of the season once again. The Whites splashed the cash to sign a new goalkeeper before the season began.
When Illan Meslier was threatening to halt the charge for automatic promotion, Daniel Farke decided to bench the Frenchman. Karl Darlow was put in goal for the rest of the campaign, and Leeds ended up lifting the league title. So when Lucas Perri was signed from Lyon, fans thought he was the answer to their problems.
However, the Brazilian’s start to the campaign was cut short due to injury. And when he returned, he looked all out of sorts. Farke once again made the call to bench his goalkeeper, and Karl Darlow stepped in once again. The Welshman is now likely to remain in goal for the rest of the campaign.
Leeds United plan revealed
Now, there are reports that Leeds United will once again be in the market for a new goalkeeper. Lucas Perri’s move has not been great, and the team could need a new stopper. However, according to Mick Brown of Football Insider, there could a sharp change in plans as the summer approaches. Leeds could reportedly decide not to sign a new goalkeeper, and rather maintain Darlow and Perri ahead of next season.
“Leeds have been looking to sign a new goalkeeper,” Brown said.
“If they can’t find a goalkeeper who fits that bill, one who is an upgrade and also affordable, they won’t be too concerned going ahead with their current options.
“Darlow is an experienced goalkeeper and he’s doing a solid job, they’ll certainly be fine sticking with him if they’re not able to identify the player they want. Ideally, they would like to upgrade in goal, but it’s not the end of the world if they can’t.”
The club not improving the goalkeeping position would come as a bit of a shock after what we have seen this season, but Darlow has showed he is decent at Premier League level.
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Leeds goalkeeping situation is very complex
A lot could happen in the goalkeeping department at Elland Road in the coming months. Karl Darlow is yet to sign a new contract, with his deal expiring in a few months. Illan Meslier’s contract is also up, with the Frenchman expected to leave the club after months of trying. Alex Cairns will most likely be let go after his deal expires in June. So the Whites could enter the summer transfer window with just Lucas Perri in the position. The 49ers can do themselves a favour and save a lot of money by renewing Darlow’s contract – giving Perri another season for him to prove himself. The third keeper slot can easily be filled by one of the U21s, which could save the club from splashing another huge amount on transfer fees.
