What next for Leeds United as Zion Suzuki responds directly to transfer proposal

Leeds United have been waiting to hear the result of their pursuit of Zion Suzuki.

The Whites are in need of another goalkeeper, with the future of Karl Darlow still very much up in the air.

The Wales international is currently a free agent after his contract at Elland Road expired. He has an offer from Leeds to remain in LS11.

However, Suzuki had seemingly emerged as Daniel Farke's priority for the number one position.

Leeds looked to be ahead of the pack in the hunt amid interest from Aston Villa and Juventus.

Now, a new update has added a fresh twist to the transfer saga involving Leeds and Japan World Cup star Suzuki.

How does Zion Suzuki feel about a Leeds transfer

For the last week, it looked like a move for Suzuki was moving in the right direction.

Widespread reports out of Italy had the Whites firmly ahead of Juventus in the race.

Juventus were said to be put off about the price of Suzuki, but it may be Leeds that take the back seat now.

That is because, according to Tuttosport on Monday night, Suzuki has now rejected the offer from Leeds, leaving the Whites in a difficult situation.

The report shares that Aston Villa and Juventus are "now gaining ground" with Leeds "withdrawing" from negotiations over the Parma shot-stopper.

Now, another search will have to be conducted as they seek another goalkeeper this window.

Unless there is a U-turn, it appears Suzuki will not be a Leeds player come the start of next season.

Who could Leeds United turn to?

Other than Suzuki, the only concrete link for Leeds United was for Manchester City's James Trafford.

Leeds still like the thought of signing Trafford, so they could turn back to the Englishman now that Suzuki looks out of the question.

Another Englishman in Aaron Ramsdale has also been mooted with a move to Elland Road.

As Leeds continue talks with Southampton over Shea Charles, they could look for a double swoop there.

Other than that, Farke may now need to hope that Darlow turns down Manchester United and Everton's contract offers in favour of remaining at Leeds.

Otherwise, the Whites will enter next season with Lucas Perri as their first-choice goalkeeper.

The Brazilian has failed to provide much confidence he could be a Premier League shot-stopper, and was dropped for Darlow midway through last campaign.