Why Leeds United's goalkeeper search has now set them onto Michele Di Gregorio

Leeds United are continuing to search for their Karl Darlow replacement.

The Welshman has recently made the controversial decision to move to bitter rivals Manchester United.

It is a move that is unlikely to go down well back in LS11, but it has further reiterated the importance of a goalkeeper signing.

The Whites had been looking to snap up Parma's Zion Suzuki, but the trail for the Japanese goalkeeper has recently gone cold.

But, eyes have seemingly been cast back onto the Serie A with Juventus' Michele Di Gregorio another name emerging.

And the goalkeeper's situation at the Old Lady could be one to watch.

What has been said about Leeds' interest in Michele Di Gregorio?

Goalkeeper is perhaps Leeds' most concerning issue as things stand. Farke is certainly not flushed with many options.

But the shortlist seems to be expanding for that position.

According to Gazzetta Dello Sport, Leeds are "interested" in the signing of Di Gregorio as they look to add goalkeepers to their ranks.

The Whites currently have last season's Lucas Perri in the squad, but as MOT Leeds News previously shared, Perri could leave Leeds this summer with just one obstacle preventing that.

Additionally, fourth choice goalkeeper Alex Cairns from the 2025-2026 season has remained on.

But, those options are not exactly inspiring for Leeds supporters as the build up to the new season continues to rumble on.

However, a move for Di Gregorio could prove quite difficult, with the report also sharing that the Italian's preference is to remain at Juventus to fight for his place.

At 28 years old, and plenty of top flight experience, it does make sense why Leeds have turned their attentions to the Italian.

And perhaps with the right proposal, his stance could still yet change.

What Gianluigi Buffon once said about Di Gregorio

Gianluigi Buffon is perhaps the most recognisable and respected goalkeeper in Italian football history.

So, when the former Juventus man talks about goalkeepers, you stop and listen to what he has to say.

While these previous comments about Di Gregorio have come from three years ago, they can still provide insight into the qualities the Italian would offer Leeds.

As shared by Cronache di Spogliatoio, relayed by Monza News in 2023, Buffon said: "Di Gregorio is the goalkeeper who surprised me the most. He had a sensational season in terms of consistency and performances.

"Vicario is a goalkeeper I really like. I'm putting him second only because he's not a surprise to me; he's proven himself at a high level this season as well."

Not many players can get that level of praise from Buffon and while Juventus are now looking to replace Di Gregorio, he could still prove to be a vital asset for the Whites.