After securing Premier League survival at the first time of asking, Leeds United are looking to flex their top-flight security and land a number of key upgrades for Daniel Farke.
On that front, Harry Wilson is already on the way. The Welshman is set to arrive as a free agent in one of the bargains of the summer, with the Whites commencing their transfer business in style.
It could be a sign of things to come, too. After agreeing a deal with Wilson, Leeds have turned their attention towards Japan goalkeeper Zion Suzuki.
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Football FanCast’s Verdict |
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Credibility |
It just about summed up Leeds’ goalkeeper problems when Karl Darlow was forced to step back in last season. Something needs to change and the arrival of a young goalkeeper who can take the role for years to come makes perfect sense. |
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Finances |
In terms of cost, Parma aren’t set to accept a cut-price and Leeds are not willing to give up their chase, igniting reports that they could pay over €30m (£26m) to land the Japan international this summer. |
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Insight |
The shot-stopper, who’s still just 23 years old, is one of the best young goalkeepers around. Despite Japan’s early exit against Brazil, he impressed and came away with an excellent save percentage of 70% – more than Lucas Perri last season. |
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Impact |
It’s about time Leeds addressed their goalkeeper problems and whilst Suzuki won’t come cheap, he would finally end Farke’s biggest issue at Elland Road. |
There’s plenty of interest in Suzuki this summer, but reports have just handed Leeds a major boost in pursuit of the 23-year-old.
Leeds ready to go all in to sign Suzuki
It looks like those at Elland Road mean business this summer. According to Italian journalist Gianluigi Longari, Leeds are ready to go all out to sign Suzuki and are readying a bid worth over €30m (£26m) to land his signature.
The Whites are desperate to win the race for the Japan international and now lead the race to secure his arrival.
Whilst clubs like Aston Villa have also been accredited with interest, this now seems like Leeds’ race to lose, having already also held talks with Parma over a move.
Suzuki will finally end Leeds’ goalkeeper misery
It’s Déjà vu for Leeds, who were in this exact position one year ago. It was then that they believed Perri would be the answer to their problems, only for Darlow to resume his responsibilities by the end of the campaign, and let’s not even start on Illan Meslier.
Now, Suzuki looks to be the next in line to receive an opportunity.
This time could be different, however. The Japan international has already performed on the biggest stage this summer and did so off the back of an impressive domestic campaign with Parma. All signs point towards an emerging star, who’s destined to get even better.
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25/26 |
Darlow |
Suzuki |
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Minutes |
1,980 |
1,800 |
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Saves Per 90 |
2.86 |
3.3 |
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Save percentage |
70% |
70.2% |
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Pass accuracy |
58.2% |
61.9% |
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Errors leading to goal |
0 |
1 |
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Clean sheets |
5 |
5 |
Dubbed “phenomenal” by Como scout Ben Mattinson last year, Suzuki has more than earned the chance to complete a big move this summer.
