Leeds United are facing a major decision next week as several contracts at Elland Road are due to expire. As things stand, three first-team players could leave the club before the new season gets underway.
Alex Cairns has already committed his future by accepting a new contract, ensuring he remains Leeds’ backup goalkeeper.
Adam Pope makes major Lucas Perri claim amid Karl Darlow uncertainty
One departure has already been confirmed, with Illan Meslier set to leave after Leeds decided against offering the Frenchman a new contract. That leaves the Whites in a potentially difficult position, with only two senior goalkeepers currently under contract.
Karl Darlow has been offered a new deal but has yet to make a decision on whether he will stay, while Lucas Perri continues to attract interest after being linked with a move in January.
Speaking on the Don’t Go To Bed Yet podcast, BBC Radio Leeds journalist Adam Pope believes the club should not delay their plans while waiting for Darlow’s decision.
“I don’t know if focusing in on Karl Darlow is the answer to the problem.
“I think there’s a bigger, wider picture where he leaves to become a third-choice goalkeeper at Manchester United or wherever he wants to go, and Leeds sign someone else.
“I do feel like if, in the next few weeks, they received a great offer for Perri that they wanted to accept, then Darlow stays as the second-choice goalkeeper and they bring in another number one. I think that’s probably the dream scenario.
“But that needs a lot of jigsaw pieces to come together, doesn’t it?”
Leeds cannot afford to wait
Pope’s assessment highlights the dilemma facing Leeds. Waiting indefinitely for Darlow’s decision could leave the club scrambling if he chooses to move elsewhere.
Manchester United are believed to be one of the clubs interested in the experienced goalkeeper, and they are in a stronger financial position to offer him an attractive contract.
Darlow now faces a straightforward choice: remain at Leeds and compete for regular football, or head to Old Trafford in a backup role.
With transfer situations changing quickly, the 49ers cannot afford to stand still. If Darlow continues to delay his decision, Leeds may have no option but to move on and pursue alternative goalkeeper targets before the market moves beyond their reach.
