JUST IN: LEEDS UNITED PLUNGED INTO TURMOIL AS SHOCK TRANSFER TWIST EMERGES DANIEL FARKE REVEALED

Leeds United have been hit by a major transfer twist as Daniel Farke’s plans for the summer continue to take shape, with the club facing a significant decision over the future of one of their current goalkeepers.

The Whites are reportedly closing in on a deal to sign Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford, a move that could have major consequences for Lucas Perri’s future at Elland Road.

Trafford has emerged as Leeds’ leading target as Farke looks to strengthen his squad ahead of the new Premier League season. The 23-year-old is understood to be keen on a move that would give him the opportunity to play regularly after struggling for consistent first-team football at Manchester City.

The potential arrival of Trafford, however, has created a new situation for Leeds.

According to the latest reports, Lucas Perri is now expected to leave the club, with Italian side Torino reportedly pursuing a deal for the Brazilian goalkeeper. Leeds are believed to be seeking a fee in the region of $11.5 million for Perri, who could be allowed to depart as the club prepares to welcome Trafford as its new first-choice goalkeeper.

The development has left Leeds facing what could become one of the most significant changes to their goalkeeping department in recent years.

Perri made 15 appearances for Leeds last season, but the club have already seen Illan Meslier and Karl Darlow move on to new opportunities. With the squad requiring a new No.1, Farke has reportedly made the position a priority during the transfer window.

The manager’s transfer strategy has already attracted plenty of attention. Leeds have brought in Bosnian defender Tarik Muharemovic and signed Harry Wilson as they look to build a squad capable of improving on last season’s 15th-place finish in the Premier League.

However, the goalkeeper situation has now become the centre of attention.

Trafford’s potential move to Elland Road would represent a major statement of intent. The former Burnley goalkeeper is believed to be eager to establish himself as a regular Premier League starter, while Leeds see him as a player capable of providing long-term stability between the posts.

The transfer has also taken on added significance because Newcastle United had previously shown interest in Trafford. That interest appears to have cooled after Newcastle strengthened their own goalkeeping options, leaving Leeds in a strong position to complete the deal.

But while Trafford’s possible arrival has excited many supporters, Perri’s expected departure has created a new layer of uncertainty around the club.

The Brazilian goalkeeper only joined Leeds as part of the club’s recent goalkeeping plans, and his potential exit means Farke will once again be forced to reshape the position. If the move to Torino goes through, Trafford would be expected to take over as Leeds’ leading goalkeeper.

The situation is also unfolding at a time when Farke’s own ambitions for the club have become a major talking point.

After guiding Leeds to Premier League safety, the German manager made it clear that he wants the club to move beyond simply fighting relegation. Farke has stated that Leeds must match his ambition and continue progressing rather than settle for maintaining the status quo.

That message has placed increased importance on the club’s transfer activity.

The latest developments suggest that Leeds are actively working to strengthen the squad, but the expected change in goalkeepers shows that the summer could also bring significant departures alongside new arrivals.

With the new Premier League campaign approaching, Farke will hope the changes give Leeds a stronger foundation. The manager is expected to demand more from his team after last season’s survival, and the arrival of Trafford could be an important part of that plan.

For now, the biggest question is whether Leeds can complete the deal for Trafford while finalising Perri’s departure.

If both moves go through, Leeds United could begin the new season with a completely different goalkeeper at the heart of Farke’s plans a major transfer twist that has already created plenty of discussion around Elland Road.

The club’s supporters will now be watching closely for official confirmation.