Bayern Munich Goalkeeper Snubs Leeds United as Whites’ Summer Search Continues
Leeds United’s search for a new number one will roll on into pre-season after a Bayern Munich goalkeeper linked with a surprise switch to Elland Road has now ruled out a move to Yorkshire.
With Illan Meslier’s exit still fresh and the Premier League campaign just around the corner, there had been growing hope that Leeds would land an experienced replacement. Adam Underwood and his recruitment team have been weighing up several options but now face the reality that their shortlist just got shorter.
It’s understood the Bayern Munich stopper — whose name has been kept under wraps to protect ongoing negotiations elsewhere — has informed both his current club and potential suitors that he will not be heading to the Championship winners this summer.
Sources close to the player say that while the chance to test himself in English football was “seriously considered”, he ultimately felt his next step should keep him closer to home.
A source explained: “There was genuine interest from Leeds and conversations reached an advanced stage, but the player decided it’s not the right fit at this moment in his career. He respects the project at Elland Road but has opted for a move that makes more sense personally and professionally.”
For Leeds, the setback won’t come as a complete shock. They have long been tracking alternatives in Europe and are expected to step up talks with other targets in the coming days. A move for Freiburg’s Noah Atubolu has been mentioned, though club insiders stress nothing is imminent.
Meanwhile, the Whites have wasted no time strengthening other areas. Sweden international Gabriel Gudmundsson has signed from Lille, providing fresh options on the left side. The versatile defender, who has earned rave reviews in Ligue 1 for his energy and composure, is seen as a smart addition to Daniel Farke’s squad.
And in midfield, negotiations for Newcastle’s Sean Longstaff are progressing well. Sources say a deal could be wrapped up by the end of the week if final details fall into place.
One agent familiar with the Longstaff talks said: “Leeds have been clear about their interest. There’s a willingness on all sides to get this over the line. Sean wants regular football and the chance to be part of something new.”
For fans, the big question remains who will be between the sticks when the Premier League returns. With Meslier gone and Karl Darlow yet to convince as a long-term solution, it’s vital that Leeds get this call right.
Underwood knows it too. Speaking last week at Thorp Arch, he admitted: “We’re working hard to ensure we have strong competition in goal. There’s no panic, but we’re mindful of the timeline.”
Pre-season fixtures are now looming, and while there is calm confidence in the boardroom, it’s clear Leeds must act swiftly if they want to avoid a scramble come August.
In the meantime, Gudmundsson’s arrival and Longstaff’s potential signing offer a dose of positivity for supporters eager to see momentum build after promotion. But until the goalkeeping puzzle is solved, this transfer window remains a work in progress — with plenty still to play for.