What Leeds United fans can 'bank on' as Zion Suzuki transfer speculation grows

Leeds United continue to be linked with a move for Parma goalkeeper Zion Suzuki this summer.

The Whites are facing a few tricky decisions when it comes to their ranks between the sticks this window.

Lucas Perri's transfer from Lyon a year ago has simply not worked out, and if the right offer comes in then a sale could be on the cards.

Karl Darlow usurped Perri as number one for the second half of the campaign, but is out of contract and has interest from elsewhere.

Illan Meslier has also left the club, as expected, on a free transfer after falling out of favour with Daniel Farke.

Reports in Italy are gathering pace that Leeds are leading the race for Suzuki, and Yorkshire Evening Post reporter Graham Smyth has updated fans on his understanding.

Leeds United interest in Zion Suzuki explained

Interest in Suzuki is said to be high, especially given his strong performances for Japan at the World Cup.

A 2-1 defeat to Brazil in the last 32 means Suzuki's World Cup campaign is now over, though, and the 23-year-old can now focus on his club future.

It was reported by La TV Dello Sport journalist Gianluigi Longari this week that Leeds are ready to meet Parma's £25.8million valuation for Suzuki with add-ons, and that the Whites are leading the race.

However, Smyth, who confirmed Suzuki is a player Leeds like, said his understanding is that nothing has yet progressed beyond interest.

Speaking on the Inside Elland Road podcast, he said: "Suzuki is a player they like and it's a similar story to James Trafford, he's on their list of goalkeepers.

"But, as of [Tuesday], it wasn't an active pursuit, they have not pressed forward yet to go and try and buy him. But if you're to believe the Italian press, Leeds are pushing hard to try and close the deal.

"So, I'll stick with what we know for now, which is we know they like him. The thing you must remember as well is it takes very little time for liking player to actively pursuing a player.

"All it takes is making a phone call or a WhatsApp message and all of a sudden you're in talks. I think what you can bank on is that Leeds like the look of him for the goalkeeping potential vacancy that could arise."

What other business could Leeds United do?

Leeds are looking to build upon a 14th-place finish on their return to the Premier League last season.

As Smyth alluded to, Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford has been linked as an option other than Suzuki between the sticks.

Leeds are looking for defensive reinforcement having sold Pascal Struijk to Brighton, with Real Betis' Natan and Nico Elvedi of Borussia Monchengladbach having been named as reported targets.

Harry Wilson's move on a free transfer from Fulham is all but done, while Julian Brandt and Shea Charles remain active targets.