NafisaLeeds United’s transfer window has reached the stage where every move appears to depend on another.
While supporters continue to focus on the club’s pursuit of a new first-choice goalkeeper, there has been just as much activity taking place behind the scenes regarding potential departures, with Daniel Farke and the recruitment team carefully balancing incomings and outgoings before the new Premier League campaign begins.
Several players have already moved on this summer, helping free up both wages and squad space, but another significant exit now appears to be edging closer.
The latest development could have a major impact on Leeds’ transfer plans over the coming days.
Reports from Italy suggest an agreement is progressing, although one crucial piece of business must be completed before the move can receive the green light.
That is because Leeds remain determined not to weaken their goalkeeping department until they have secured the man they want to lead the position for years to come.
According to LeedsLive, Serie A side Torino have made formal enquiries over Lucas Perri and are preparing a loan offer that includes an option to buy the Brazilian goalkeeper.
The report adds that Leeds have no intention of allowing Perri to leave before they complete the signing of James Trafford, with the club viewing the Manchester City goalkeeper as their priority target this summer.
Italian outlet Calciomercato claims Torino sporting director Gianluca Petrachi is now “closing the operation” with Leeds, but Trafford’s delayed departure from Manchester City is currently preventing the deal from being finalised.
The report states that Perri is effectively on standby and could travel for a medical almost immediately once Trafford’s transfer is officially completed.
That breakthrough now appears to be getting closer.
Leeds are closing in on a club-record £40 million deal, plus add-ons, to sign Trafford from Manchester City after weeks of negotiations between the two clubs.
The England international has already agreed personal terms with Leeds, while multiple reports indicate only the final contractual details remain before the transfer is officially announced.
Manchester City have also omitted Trafford from their initial squad travelling on their pre-season tour of Asia.
Although the club explained that several players involved in the latter stages of the FIFA World Cup have been granted additional rest, his absence has only increased speculation that a move to Elland Road is nearing completion.
Trafford was part of England’s squad that finished third at this summer’s World Cup, although he did not feature during the tournament itself.
His last appearance came in England’s pre-World Cup friendly against New Zealand in early June, meaning he should still have enough time to build fitness before Leeds begin their Premier League campaign if the transfer is wrapped up soon.
Once Trafford arrives, Leeds are expected to immediately sanction Perri’s move to Torino.
The Brazilian arrived at Elland Road with high expectations last summer and was initially viewed as the club’s long-term solution between the posts. However, inconsistent performances and increased competition saw him fall down the pecking order as the season progressed.
Now, with Farke preparing for another year in the Premier League, Leeds believe a change is best for all parties.
Should both transfers be completed over the coming days, Leeds would not only secure one of England’s brightest young goalkeepers but also complete another important piece of their summer rebuild, ensuring the squad continues to evolve ahead of what promises to be a demanding top-flight campaign.
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