Leeds United Agree Deal In Principle For Lyon Goalkeeper Lucas Perri

Leeds United have reached a full agreement with Lyon to sign goalkeeper Lucas Perri. The Brazilian is now set for a medical before completing his transfer to Elland Road.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Leeds United and Lyon have agreed on a deal for 27-year-old goalkeeper Lucas Perri. Reports confirm that Perri is already flying to England for his medical. The final steps of the transfer will follow soon. The move comes after Leeds made signing a new first-choice goalkeeper a top priority. This is because Illan Meslier was dropped from the starting lineup during last season’s run-in. Perri kept 10 clean sheets in 33 Ligue 1 matches last season and helped Lyon maintain their top-flight status and qualify for Europe, as Lyon will remain in Ligue 1 for the 2025-26 season following a successful appeal against demotion.

WHY LEEDS TARGET PERRI NOW

Leeds have been looking for a reliable goalkeeper after clinching Premier League promotion last season. Daniel Farke lost confidence in Meslier. With Perri available for around £13 million, Leeds made their move. Despite a minor muscle injury that has forced him to miss Lyon’s recent pre-season friendlies, Leeds have not been deterred. Perri is seen as dependable, having played 2,970 Ligue 1 minutes last campaign. His arrival shows a clear intent to strengthen the defence, particularly since Lyon are facing relegation to Ligue 2 due to financial issues. Leeds aim to stay in the Premier League after another promotion from the Championship. They finished in the top-2 last term, along with Burnley.

WHAT’S NEXT: FIXTURES, STANDINGS, AND OUTLOOK

Perri is expected to complete his medical in the coming days. He will then join his new teammates at Leeds United’s training base. Leeds are preparing for their Premier League opener at home against Everton. Everton finished mid-table last season and will want to change the recent trends of struggling more and more to stay in the Premier League. Lyon, meanwhile, must adjust for Perri’s absence and address their goalkeeper options. They aim to bounce back from last season’s struggles and improve their Europa League qualification.