Leeds United remain in talks for James Trafford, who found no renewed hope of game time under new Manchester City boss Enzo Maresca.
There was a slim chance Maresca could have swapped his primary pick but Gianluigi Donnarumma will be staying as number one, which henceforth has prompted Trafford to seek pastures new.
Trafford has his eye on becoming Jordan Pickford’s successor as England no.1 and admitted last month that he needs to be first choice at club level to have a chance of achieving that goal. Leeds could guarantee him the starting spot for many years to come.
The Whites have meanwhile reached their ceiling with Shea Charles, submitting an improved but final offer before Southampton. Talks between the two clubs appear not to have been as fluid as desired.
As Leeds Live reported last week, Leeds are prepared to move onto other targets if they feel the pursuit of Charles has become futile. Their latest offer – which is undisclosed – will remain active throughout the window and Southampton can take it up at any time, but Leeds will not be tempted to go any higher.
Leeds are also waiting to hear of Julian Brandt’s next steps. Discussions with the free agent’s camp are ongoing, with chats based not just on wages but also the overall picture of where he fits in and what future Leeds can offer.
Julian Brandt’s agent was in Leeds last week(Image: Max Maiwald/DeFodi Images/DeFodi via Getty Images)
Brandt’s father and agent Jurgen met senior Leeds figures at Thorp Arch last week, though this one was of a number of stops at Premier League clubs. However, Leeds are at least being considered.
As for outgoings, Jack Harrison’s move to MLS outfit New England Revolution is expected to go through without blemish. The winger is set for a medical imminently amid a small fee exit.
All other unwanted players are due to be sold too, despite the tearing up of Max Wober’s contract. The Austrian had 12 months left on his deal but pre-agreed contract clause stipulations meant Leeds could have actually lost money through a low-figure sale, as was likely.
Largie Ramazani and Joe Gelhardt have not been taken on the club’s tour of the US and will be offloaded in due course, be it a loan or a sale. One player who could join them is Lucas Perri.
Leeds are adamant that they will not allow him to exit before a new goalkeeper – Trafford or another option – is acquired. Torino are interested, and – given Perri’s contract lasting until 2029 – are expected to approach with a loan offer with an option or obligation to buy once United grab hold of a new number one.
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