Credit: Imago

Carla Devine

Mon 14 April 2025 9:30, UK

Leeds United are back at the top of the Championship table, looking towards the Premier League.

After a dip in form, there were concerns that Leeds could be set to mess up their chances of automatic promotion yet again.

However, Daniel Farke kept his nerve and made some bold decisions, with Karl Darlow replacing Illan Meslier in the starting line-up.

Form has since improved and there is now a five-point gap between both Leeds and Burnley and Sheffield United sitting third in the league.

Leeds eye new goalkeeper transfer

Although Farke was keen to stand by Meslier for much of the campaign, the continuous mistakes that were costing his side left the boss with no choice but to make a change.

The introduction of Darlow into the team has certainly boosted the Whites, who do look to have rectified their poor run of form.

Nevertheless, it is said that Leeds are eyeing a new goalkeeper ahead of next season with the feeling that neither of the current options are at the desired level.

It has been shared that one of the targets at Elland Road is Nick Pope, who is under contract with Newcastle United until 2026.

Speaking to Football League World (14 April), David Prutton admitted he likes the sounds of such a transfer, saying: “Nick Pope to Leeds – that sounds like a pretty good fit, doesn’t it?

“He has shown himself to be a very steadying influence, which with the debate raging about Illan Meslier and the ongoing situation with who is the number one, time will tell over the next few weeks whether they stick with Karl, or whether they go back to Illan.

“It seems to be Karl’s jersey to lose. But they do need to address that in the summer. A dominant goalkeeper such as Nick Pope, having had the experience of playing for Newcastle and understanding that level of expectation, could fit very well indeed.

“But, he’d have a fight on his hands with the existing goalkeepers that are there.”

Leeds have to prioritise goalkeeper transfer

There is no doubt that bringing a new goalkeeper to Elland Road in the summer is essential.

Darlow certainly has been able to turn things around, but having spent the majority of the campaign on the bench and now 34 years old, making him a long-term number one could be a risk.

Although he is also in his thirties, you can understand the attraction to Pope, who has been playing at a top level during his time in the North East.

Furthermore, with his contract expiring next summer, it could be a chance for his current club to cash in and bring money into the fold.

That being said, Pope remains the number one choice for Eddie Howe and given he has lifted the Carabao Cup with his side this season, he surely would prioritise staying put if the option is there, with possible Champions League football available again.

Farke and his squad need someone they can trust between the sticks, but as it stands, they may need to re-evaluate their targets and could possibly look for someone younger with several years left in him.