Leeds hold talks to sign new £4m colossus who's Champions League "proven"

Leeds United have now entered talks over a summer deal for a “fantastic” player, who has “proven” himself in the Champions League, according to a report.

Illan Meslier’s catalogue of errors ultimately didn’t cost Leeds in their quest for promotion, who sealed a return to the Premier League after reaching the 100-point mark with a 2-1 victory over Plymouth Argyle on the final day, but it looks as though they may still consider replacing the Frenchman.

Karl Darlow was brought in for the final seven matches of the Championship campaign, with the 34-year-old keeping four clean sheets, but given his age, Daniel Farke may be keen to bring in a younger goalkeeper as a replacement for Meslier.

Wolverhampton Wanderers’ Sam Johnstone is one of the targets, and the Preston-born shot-stopper could be an attractive option, given his experience in the Premier League, but there has now been a suggestion the Championship title-winners could take a risk on more of an unknown quantity.

According to a report from Germany (via Leeds United News), Leeds are one of a number of clubs now in talks to sign Bayern Munich goalkeeper Daniel Peretz, who could now be in line to leave the German club, after arriving for around £4m less than two years ago.

The 6 foot 3 colossus has only played a sporadic role since arriving at the Allianz Arena, meaning he could move on this summer, although given that he still retains hope of becoming Bayern’s first-choice goalkeeper, a loan deal may be on the cards.

The Whites are set to face competition for the Israeli’s signature, however, with Burnley and Genoa also keen, alongside PSV Eindhoven, and the Eredivisie side are said to be in pole position.

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The Whites are looking to bring in a new centre-forward, who could help them avoid relegation from the Premier League.

“Fantastic” Peretz could be Meslier upgrade

It is no wonder Leeds are looking at bringing in a new goalkeeper this summer, as even though they may have gotten away with Meslier’s mistakes at Championship level, their Premier League status could be in doubt if the goalkeeper makes similar errors next season.

TEAMtalk’s James Marshment criticised the 25-year-old for another “high-profile clanger” against Hull City back in January, following on from a major late error which cost Farke’s side two points against Sunderland in October.

Peretz, on the other hand, has been praised by Bayern Munich sporting director Max Eberl, who said: “Daniel Peretz is a fantastic backup. He’s proven himself in the cup, Bundesliga, and now the Champions League. He also delivered great performances for the Israeli national team against Belgium and France.

That said, the 24-year-old has found game time hard to come by at Bayern, making just five senior appearances across the 2024-25 season, so he may need to leave for the good of his career this summer, at which point it is clear Leeds will need to replace Meslier.