Alex Cairns transfer lined up as Leeds United ready to pay out
Leeds United are set to pay a nominal fee for the transfer of Alex Cairns from Salford City, according to Graham Smyth.
The Yorkshire Evening Post journalist reported via X [8 July] that the Whites see the 31-year-old as a direct replacement for Kristoffer Klaesson.
The goalkeeper was previously at Leeds in the 2011/12 season and will likely look to make an impact if called upon.
Why Leeds United are going after Alex Cairns
As aforementioned, thanks to the departure of Klaesson to Rakow Czestochowa, the Whites were left with just two senior goalkeepers in Illan Meslier and Karl Darlow.
Although the former may be on his way out of Elland Road [Daily Mail, 29 June] this summer, meaning Leeds would need yet another keeper replacement, Cairns will fulfil the role Daniel Farke needs him to.
It’s unlikely that the 31-year-old will be called upon across the season but it should fill the fans with hope that last season, he managed a total of 51 appearances across all competitions.
During those games, he only managed to keep eight clean sheets, but, the fact that he’s going to be third-choice shouldn’t put fans off too much.
Granted, the fact that a fee will have to be paid isn’t ideal but it will likely be mostly covered by Klaesson’s departure [Nettavisen, 6 July].
All in all, although the addition of Cairns isn’t the most exciting, the fact that he counts as a homegrown player somewhat softens the deal as it allows Leeds to target players outside of the UK to join the club.
In other Leeds news, an update has been provided on the Whites’ pursuit of Callum O’Hare.
For more Leeds news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.