Leeds United are refusing to give up on what’s been described as their dream signing, with Daniel Farke prepared to be patient in his pursuit of England goalkeeper James Trafford this summer.
Why Leeds Need a New No. 1
The Whites are prioritising a fresh first-choice goalkeeper following Karl Darlow’s departure to Manchester United, a move that has left Lucas Perri and Alex Cairns as Leeds’ only senior options heading into the new Premier League season. Despite already strengthening the squad significantly with the arrivals of Harry Wilson and £34 million defender Tarik Muharemović, Leeds have yet to make their decisive move between the posts.
That delay, though, appears to be entirely by design.
A Deliberate Waiting Game
According to Yorkshire Evening Post journalist Graham Smyth, Leeds have identified Trafford as their top target and are prepared to remain patient while his situation at Manchester City resolves itself. The 23-year-old’s move to the Etihad was expected to establish him among Europe’s elite goalkeepers, but he’s struggled to earn regular first-team football behind Gianluigi Donnarumma. With City reportedly willing to consider offers in the region of £35-40 million, Leeds are positioning themselves to pounce the moment an opportunity arises.
Speaking on the Inside Elland Road podcast, Smyth laid out the club’s thinking clearly: “I think they are waiting for Trafford. I think Trafford’s future will be decided now that the World Cup is over. I think Leeds are waiting for them to get themselves into a good position and jostle with others to try and get him in. Dream signing if they can get it over the line.”
Facing Real Competition
Leeds won’t have this race to themselves. Newcastle United have also been strongly linked with Trafford as they continue their own search for long-term goalkeeping options. However, Leeds believe they can offer something arguably more attractive than a rival Premier League club, a genuine, uncontested path to becoming the club’s undisputed number one. Given how little regular football Trafford has seen since joining City, that kind of certainty could prove decisive in swaying his decision.
The Perri Situation Adds Urgency
Complicating matters further is ongoing uncertainty around Lucas Perri’s own future at Elland Road, with speculation suggesting Leeds could be open to listening to offers if the right proposal arrives. Should Perri depart, signing a new goalkeeper would shift from priority to genuine necessity almost overnight.
What Happens Next?
With England’s World Cup campaign now finished, Trafford’s next move is expected to become considerably clearer over the coming days. Leeds are hopeful their patience throughout this saga will finally pay off. Farke has already demonstrated this summer that he’s willing to wait for the right target rather than rush into a deal, and Trafford remains the goalkeeper the club believes can anchor its defence for years to come as Leeds prepare for another demanding season in the Premier League.
Leeds fans, is Trafford worth the wait, or should the club be moving faster given their current goalkeeping shortage? Let us know your thoughts below.
