Leeds United had four players going into this summer’s World Cup. Aside the pride of playing for your country and winning a major trophy, the tournament also serves another purpose.
It gives a platform for many of these players to catch the eye of recruitment teams around the world.
Many clubs have been known to sign players for their success during the tournament. Leeds stars Brenden Aaronson, Ao Tanaka, Noah Okafor and Gabriel Gudmundsson began the tournament.
But three of them have already been eliminated.
Okafor remains the only Whites player in the competition as Switzerland made the Quarter final.
World Cup star open to Leeds United switch
Leeds United have been working behind the scenes, as they aim to get this summer window right.
Last year was a big success, as the club signed 10 new players. These signings all played a huge part in the team managing to avoid relegation; finishing in 14th place in the Premier League.
The Whites have been active in the market this summer in search of a goalkeeper.
The World Cup has seen some impressive goalkeeping performances, with some of them being linked with a move to Elland Road.
Sweden star Jacob Zetterstrom was outstanding during the tournament, leading to him being linked with multiple clubs. The goalkeeper refused to comment on his future after his country exited the competition.
The latest from Football Insider says that Zetterstrom is open to a move to Elland Road.
Leeds are willing to bring him in, and make him a first choice keeper. Derby are also bracing themselves for offers after the goalkeeper’s performances in the World Cup.
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Leeds need to wrap up the goalkeeping situation
Karl Darlow is a free agent, and as things stand it would be a surprise if he does return.
Interest from Manchester United and Everton could sway him to leave. The fact that everything seems to have gone quiet on that front should be a bad sign for Leeds.
And in that case, the 49ers must act fast to avoid disrupting summer plans.
Getting in a new goalkeeper for the future does a lot; it secures the club from lacking options if Darlow decides to sign or not.
If he does return, then there will be competition in goal. If Darlow chooses to go elsewhere, then Leeds would have made the right decision finding a new number one for next season.
