Leeds United are actively working on a deal to sign a new first-choice goalkeeper following their return to the Premier League, according to former Manchester United and Blackburn Rovers chief scout Mick Brown.
Brown, speaking to Football Insider, revealed that manager Daniel Farke is “desperate” to bring in a new number one this summer, with current stopper Illan Meslier expected to leave Elland Road. The 25-year-old was dropped for the final seven matches of the Championship-winning campaign and is reportedly no longer in Farke’s long-term plans.
“Daniel Farke doesn’t think he can rely on him as his first-choice goalkeeper in the Premier League, and he’s desperate to bring somebody in that he can rely on,” said Brown. “The goalkeeper has had a nightmare season and they decided to drop him from the team.”
Ten New Signings At Elland Road?
Football Insider previously reported that Leeds are targeting as many as ten new signings during the window, with the board planning to back Farke heavily following their title triumph. One of the names linked is Wolves and England keeper Sam Johnstone, who Brown described as a “stable option” and someone already under consideration behind the scenes.
“Leeds are looking like they’ll be busy,” Brown added. “They have a lot of top Championship players, but not many Premier League players.”
Beyond the goalkeeping position, Leeds are also eyeing reinforcements up front. Veteran striker Jamie Vardy is among the targets, following his departure from Leicester City. However, the club reportedly has no intention of relying solely on the 38-year-old and will pursue another top-level forward to bolster their attack.
Patrick Bamford and Joel Piroe, while effective in the Championship, are not viewed internally as viable starting options in the Premier League. That makes the forward line another critical area for strengthening as Leeds prepare for a competitive top-flight return.
Writer’s View
It’s no surprise to see Leeds United prioritising a new goalkeeper—Illan Meslier’s dip in form coincided with key tactical adjustments late in the season, and Farke appears keen to start afresh with a proven top-flight option.
The early planning also speaks volumes about the club’s intent to be more than just survivors on their Premier League return. A measured but ambitious summer window will be key to sustaining momentum, especially if the likes of Vardy arrive to support a younger strike force.
