This Leeds United Star Targetted By Besiktas: Should Farke Sell Him? | OneFootball

Turkish giants Beşiktaş have picked out Leeds United goalkeeper Lucas Perri as a primary candidate. They hope he can fix their mounting goalkeeping crisis. Respected journalist Ertan Süzgün broke the news.

Beşiktaş Eye Leeds United’s Lucas Perri to Fill Void Left by Fenerbahçe-Bound Günok

He revealed that the Black Eagles have firmly placed the Brazilian shot-stopper on their radar. This interest surfaces in the middle of a chaotic January window for the Istanbul club. They are frantically restructuring their squad following a series of high-profile exits.

Beşiktaş have spent the month aggressively balancing their books. They approved departures that have generated approximately €32m. Tammy Abraham, Demir Ege Tıknaz, and Rafa Silva have all bid farewell to the Tüpraş Stadium. These moves hand the board significant capital to reinvest.

However, the club have suffered the most stinging loss for free. Veteran goalkeeper Mert Günok crossed the Bosphorus to join bitter rivals Fenerbahçe. His departure left a gaping hole between the sticks. So, the hunt for a new number one has become critical. Süzgün confirms that Perri is now a leading contender to take over Günok’s gloves.

A Turbulent Debut Season at Elland Road

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – JANUARY 07: Lucas Perri of Leeds United applauds the fans after the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Leeds United at St James’ Park on January 07, 2026 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)

Perri’s situation in West Yorkshire offers a strange backdrop to these transfer rumblings. The 28-year-old arrived at Elland Road only last summer. People expected him to be Daniel Farke’s undisputed first choice. His campaign, however, has gone up and down.

Perri initially secured the starting berth in late October. The Brazilian then enjoyed a consistent run in the first team. This suggested he had settled into Premier League life. Yet, Farke has surprisingly dropped him to the bench for Leeds’ last two league fixtures. This move casts sudden doubt over where he stands with the club long-term.

This abrupt demotion has undoubtedly alerted suitors like Beşiktaş. For Leeds United, this interest presents a tough choice as the deadline looms. Selling a goalkeeper just six months after his arrival typically signals a failed recruitment drive.

However, Farke’s ruthlessness in benching Perri suggests the manager remains unconvinced. Beşiktaş might offer a fee that covers what Leeds paid in the summer or perhaps turns a quick profit. If that happens, the Whites might feel tempted to cut their losses.

Even so, cashing in now seems premature. Goalkeepers often require a full season to get used to the physical demands of English football. If Farke hasn’t found a superior, immediately available replacement yet, letting Perri leave would leave Leeds dangerously thin in a specialised position.

Leeds ought to reject the overtures. They should reinstate Perri to build his confidence rather than reacting impulsively to a momentary dip in form. The Brazilian possesses the raw attributes to succeed. Leeds must hold their nerve.