Deal 80% Done: Leeds Plot Stunning £19m Hijack of Napoli’s No.1 Goalkeeper Target!

Leeds United Face Battle to Secure £19m Goalkeeper Target as Napoli Enter Talks

Leeds United’s hopes of landing their top goalkeeping target, Vanja Milinković-Savić, are under serious threat with Serie A champions Napoli now stepping up efforts to sign the Torino shot-stopper.

With Illan Meslier expected to leave Elland Road this summer following his fall from favour during Leeds’ Championship-winning campaign, the club’s recruitment team have prioritised signing a new number one. While Karl Darlow performed admirably during the club’s promotion push, he is not viewed as the long-term answer between the posts as Leeds prepare for their return to the Premier League.

Led by sporting director Adam Underwood, the club have been assessing several goalkeeping options over recent weeks, drawing up a shortlist that places Milinković-Savić at the very top. The 27-year-old Serbian international, currently plying his trade at Torino, is understood to be highly rated by the Leeds hierarchy.

However, the Whites are in danger of missing out, with reports from Italy confirming that Napoli are set to open talks with Torino over a potential deal. According to Tutto Mercato, Milinković-Savić has agreed personal terms with Napoli, who are keen to bolster their goalkeeping options this summer.

Despite the agreement on the player’s side, there remains a significant hurdle in the negotiations. Torino are adamant that any deal for their No.1 must meet the full £19 million release clause in his contract. Napoli, who already have Alex Meret on their books, are reportedly unwilling to match that valuation.

This impasse presents an opportunity for Leeds. Sources suggest the Yorkshire club are prepared to activate the release clause, but the key obstacle remains convincing Milinković-Savić to choose Elland Road over the lure of Champions League football in Naples.

The situation remains fluid, with Leeds hoping Torino’s firm stance and Napoli’s reluctance to pay full price could yet tip the scales in their favour. However, time is of the essence, and any delay from the Premier League newcomers could see them lose out on a player they have earmarked as a cornerstone of their return to the top flight.

While no deal has been finalised, the next few days are likely to prove decisive. Leeds will be banking on swift negotiations and the promise of Premier League football to persuade Milinković-Savić to consider a move to England.

The club are understood to be actively pursuing other options should the move fall through, but there is a clear sense of urgency to secure their preferred target ahead of pre-season preparations.

Should the deal for Milinković-Savić collapse, it will not only be a setback to Leeds’ transfer plans but a missed opportunity to address a crucial position with a proven international talent. The race is on, and Leeds must move quickly if they are to win this high-stakes transfer battle.