Lucas Perri’s Leeds United future in the balance with Karl Darlow decision key to transfer call | OneFootball

Lucas Perri’s Leeds United future is finely balanced this summer, with Karl Darlow’s contract call set to shape any goalkeeper moves. Perri is under contract until 2029.

Signed for £13.9m to be first choice, he was dropped after six months as Darlow excelled. Darlow is into the final month of his deal and, according to Leeds Live, talks over a renewal are expected. He turns 36 next season and must weigh starts against a back-up role.

Daniel Farke has praised Darlow and hinted supporters could read his intentions on a new contract. In January he said the board knew his views, he would not discuss them publicly, and the club always looked to strengthen, particularly where weaker.

If Darlow re-signs as number two and a new number one arrives, Perri would be third choice as at season’s end, which seems unsustainable. Leeds must decide whether to sell or sit tight.

With add-ons unlikely all triggered and the £13.9m fee amortised over four years, breaking even now would need about £10.4m under tighter SCR rules. Given his FA Cup heroics and age, 28, that sum is possible, if not probable.

Alternatively, Leeds could back Perri after a year of acclimatisation or wait if bids fall short. Darlow may attract interest after a solid stint back in the Premier League. There is also a decision on fourth-choice Alex Cairns, valued for leadership and homegrown status on minimal terms, while 19-year-old Rory Mahady impressed in 19 games at Scunthorpe United.

Source: Leeds Live