Leeds United’s goalkeeping department is about to look completely different. After a summer of chaos between the sticks, the Whites appear to be closing in on a genuine swap situation — one out, one in — that could finally settle Daniel Farke’s number one dilemma.
The Exit: Torino Close In on Perri
Torino are closing in on the signing of Brazilian goalkeeper Lucas Perri from Leeds, according to multiple sources in Italy including Sky Sport Italia and Fabrizio Romano. The Serie A side have made him their top target throughout the summer, and Leeds signed Perri for €16 million from Lyon last summer, meaning any sale would represent a swift turnaround on that investment.
It hasn’t been the smoothest ride for Perri at Elland Road — he endured an error-strewn debut campaign in England. Leeds are reportedly seeking a fee around £12.8 million to sanction his departure.
The Catch: No Perri Exit Without a Replacement
Here’s the twist that’s made this transfer window drag on — Leeds have been unwilling to let Perri leave until they secure another senior goalkeeper, given Alex Cairns is currently their only other experienced option between the posts. That stance follows Karl Darlow’s earlier move to Manchester United, which left Farke short on numbers in goal.
The Arrival: Trafford Trail Heats Up
Enter James Trafford. Leeds are growing increasingly confident of landing the Manchester City goalkeeper, a development that is now paving the way for Perri’s exit to go through. Newcastle and Aston Villa have also shown interest in Trafford this summer, but Leeds are understood to be the furthest along in the race.
The 23-year-old had a solid campaign on loan-turned-permanent terms at City — making 17 appearances last season and keeping eight clean sheets, before travelling to the 2026 World Cup with England, albeit without featuring for Thomas Tuchel’s side.
The transfer won’t come cheap — reports suggest the total package could reach £50 million, though it’s unclear how much would be paid upfront.
The Order of Operations
According to Romano, the dominoes are now falling in sequence: Torino are closing in on Perri, with the final details being sorted, after which Leeds will proceed with completing the Trafford deal. Other reports suggest it could work the other way, with Perri’s exit unlikely to be rubber-stamped until Trafford is officially through the door.
Not Necessarily the End of Leeds’ Goalkeeper Business
Even with Trafford incoming, Leeds might not be finished shopping — if Perri departs too, that leaves just Trafford and Cairns as senior options, likely forcing Farke back into the market for further goalkeeping depth.
Is Trafford the long-term upgrade Leeds need, or is this all just expensive goalkeeper roulette? Have your say below.
