Leeds United are expected to tackle their goalkeeping situation this summer, with the position emerging as one of the club’s key priorities ahead of next season.
Lucas Perri arrived last summer as the club’s intended first-choice goalkeeper, but a series of mistakes during the campaign saw him lose his place in the second half of the season. Karl Darlow stepped in and delivered a string of impressive performances, finishing the campaign strongly.
Despite his excellent form, Darlow’s future at Elland Road remains uncertain. The experienced goalkeeper is one of three Leeds shot-stoppers whose contracts expire this month. Daniel Farke recently suggested that Darlow’s situation will be discussed once the season concludes, leaving the door open for a contract extension.
Alex Cairns is also approaching the end of his deal, and it appears unlikely that the backup goalkeeper will be offered fresh terms. However, Leeds could look to retain him in a coaching capacity, given his involvement with the club’s Under-21 setup.
Meanwhile, Illan Meslier is widely expected to depart this summer after falling to third-choice status during the latter stages of last season.
If Cairns, Meslier and Darlow all leave, Perri would be the only senior goalkeeper still under contract at Elland Road heading into the new campaign.
As a result, Leeds have already been linked with several potential targets. Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford and Southampton’s Aaron Ramsdale have both been mentioned as possible options.
According to Football Insider, Braga goalkeeper Lukas Hornicek has also emerged as a player of interest for the Whites ahead of the transfer window.
The 23-year-old recorded 12 clean sheets in 33 appearances last season and, standing at 6ft 6in, would rank among the tallest goalkeepers in the Premier League should a move materialise.
The report adds that while Hornicek is firmly on Leeds’ shortlist, the club will continue monitoring several alternative targets before making a final decision.
Leeds should prioritise keeping Karl Darlow
Securing Karl Darlow’s future should be high on Leeds United’s agenda this summer. The goalkeeper has done more than enough to justify a new contract following his performances last season.
He proved he can compete effectively at Premier League level and would provide a reliable option between the posts heading into the new campaign.
While Leeds are expected to pursue another goalkeeper during the transfer window, retaining Darlow would give the club valuable depth and experience.
His presence would also reduce the pressure to spend heavily on an immediate first-choice goalkeeper, avoiding the urgency that surrounded the signing of Perri last summer.
