Godwin ObajeLeeds United Eye Lyon’s Lucas Perri as Goalkeeping Shake-Up Looms
Leeds United have opened talks with Lyon goalkeeper Lucas Perri as they weigh up fresh options between the sticks ahead of their Premier League return — with current No.1 Illan Meslier under growing pressure to prove he can hold the shirt.
According to reports from The Guardian, Leeds are not alone in targeting the 27-year-old Brazilian. Fellow promoted side Sunderland are also believed to be in the market for a new shot-stopper as both clubs prepare for the brutal demands of top-flight football.
It’s no secret that defensive solidity is the bedrock of survival for any newly-promoted team. After bouncing straight back to the Premier League, Leeds are keen to avoid the same mistakes that led to their drop — and for manager Daniel Farke, a reliable, commanding presence in goal is viewed as essential.
Perri, who currently plays for Lyon, has emerged as a serious candidate. His situation in France has caught the eye: Lyon, once a Ligue 1 powerhouse, are in turmoil after financial mismanagement and on-pitch struggles saw them shockingly relegated to Ligue 2. With the club now forced to balance the books, key players could be available at cut-price fees — an opportunity Leeds appear determined to exploit.
A club source told The Guardian, “Leeds United want a new goalkeeper this summer.” That stance reflects the nagging concerns over Meslier’s form. The 24-year-old Frenchman has shown flashes of brilliance in a Leeds shirt but has also been guilty of high-profile errors that have cost his side dearly, particularly in high-pressure moments.
For Leeds, the goalkeeping position is now seen as too important to leave to chance. With the club’s hierarchy determined to give Farke the tools to avoid another quick relegation, a change in goal could be one of the most significant moves of the window.
Perri, who has European experience and a growing reputation in Brazil’s national set-up, would bring a calm, physical presence to Elland Road’s back line. Crucially, his arrival would push Meslier to raise his levels — or risk losing the No.1 jersey for good.
Leeds aren’t putting all their eggs in one basket, either. Chelsea’s Djordje Petrovic is another option under active consideration. Talks have reportedly been held with both players as the club weighs up which profile best fits Farke’s tactical blueprint.
While some fans will be sad to see Meslier’s position come under threat, many accept the need for ruthless decisions in the Premier League. After all, history is littered with newly-promoted sides who paid the price for poor goalkeeping at the sharp end of the season.
One insider put it bluntly: “Both clubs [Leeds and Sunderland] know a solid keeper can save you 10 points a season — and that can be the difference between staying up or going down.”
With pre-season already underway, Leeds are expected to accelerate talks over the coming days. Perri, for his part, is said to be open to a move, with Lyon’s uncertain future making a switch to England all the more appealing.
Whether it’s Perri, Petrovic, or another surprise name, one thing is clear: Daniel Farke wants a fresh face between the posts — and for Illan Meslier, the message is equally clear. If he wants to stay Leeds’ first choice, he’ll have to prove he deserves it.
Godwin Obaje
