Credit: Imago

Josh Edwards

Sat 25 April 2026 13:10, UK

Lucas Perri is likely to be in Leeds United‘s starting 11 when they face Chelsea in the FA Cup semi-final.

The Whites are just 90 minutes away from reaching the FA Cup final, which is a testament to the way they have approached the competition, especially as a newly promoted club.

Throughout that run, Perri has played a crucial role for Leeds, having provided the heroics in the penalty shootout victory over West Ham.

Given the frailties shown in the Premier League, the FA Cup has been Perri’s only route back into the first team at Elland Road, with Karl Darlow having impressed since taking over.

But with Perri likely to start against Chelsea, he may be playing for his future.

Lucas Perri’s future could be decided on Sunday

Leeds have made no secret of their desire to sign a new goalkeeper, again, this summer, having already been linked with several options.

James Trafford has been mooted for a move to Elland Road, though the price tag set by Man City could be an issue.

Nevertheless, it feels inevitable that a new number one will arrive, and that may well push Perri back to third choice, depending on Darlow’s future.

Should the Brazilian impress again in the FA Cup against Chelsea, his stay may be as expected, but if he fails to play his part, it could be the last time we see him in a Leeds shirt.

Daniel Farke has already dropped selection hint vs Chelsea

Don’t fix something that isn’t broken. And that is seemingly the way Farjke is looking ahead to this weekend’s clash with Chelsea.

The German has been very clear with his team selections since the start of the competition, and Perri’s inclusion has been consistent.

And he looks set to stick with the same approach.

Ahead of the game, he said: “It’s quite easy. “I won’t speak about the starting line-up before my players know.

“But if you analyse what we’ve done in the cup and during the season, you could guess pretty well what I’ll do this weekend.”