Leeds Launch £12.8m Bid for Lyon’s Lucas Perri After Diarra Setback – Goalkeeper Search Heats Up Amid Saudi Competition
Leeds United have stepped up efforts to reinforce their goalkeeping department after failing to land Strasbourg captain Habib Diarra, who is set for a shock ÂŁ30 million move to newly-promoted Sunderland. Despite submitting two offers for the midfielder, Leeds have been forced to refocus their recruitment strategy, now targeting both midfield and goalkeeping reinforcements.
Although Leeds have three goalkeepers under contract through 2026, Illan Meslier’s future remains uncertain. The Frenchman, who has drawn interest from clubs in France and Turkey, lost his starting spot under Daniel Farke late last season a sign that his time at Elland Road may be drawing to a close. Previous attempts to bring in replacements have faltered, with Caoimhin Kelleher heading to Brentford and Nick Pope expected to stay at Newcastle, despite internal competition.
Leeds are now turning their attention to Lucas Perri, a Brazilian international currently with Lyon. According to L’Équipe, Leeds have tabled a £12.8 million offer for the 27-year-old, hoping to capitalise on Lyon’s financial crisis. The French club, demoted to Ligue 2 following DNCG-imposed sanctions, are preparing for a mass player exodus to ease financial pressures.
However, Leeds are not alone in their pursuit. Neom FC, a newly-promoted Saudi outfit with serious financial muscle, are also chasing Perri. The club has already raided Lyon for Alexandre Lacazette and Said Benrahma and is reportedly an attractive destination for the Brazilian, who is open to a Middle East switch.
Perri previously had a loan stint at Crystal Palace during the 2018-19 season. Though he never played a competitive match, then-manager Roy Hodgson spoke highly of the young keeper, citing his professionalism and strong performances in training. Despite not breaking into the first team due to the presence of seasoned options like Wayne Hennessey and Julian Speroni, Perri left a positive impression.
Since then, the Brazilian has matured significantly. His 2024-25 campaign with Lyon was a breakout year, boasting 13 clean sheets in 45 matches and earning a call-up to the Brazil national team. With Leeds determined to shore up their backline, Perri has emerged as a priority target though they may need to fend off strong competition to secure his services.
“🚨Leeds United Eye ÂŁ13m Goalkeeper as Top Transfer Target After Shocking Twist – Major Update Emerges on Shot-Stopper Rated “Very Good” Amid Sudden Surge in Interest!”
“🚨Leeds United Eye ÂŁ13m Goalkeeper as Top Transfer Target After Shocking Twist – Major Update Emerges on Shot-Stopper Rated “Very Good” Amid Sudden Surge in Interest!”