Leeds United are closing in on the capture of Valerenga’s goalkeeping talent Kristoffer Klaesson this summer.
According to an exclusive report from Football Insider, Leeds United are making significant strides in their pursuit of Kristoffer Klaesson. The Valerenga starlet has emerged as the club’s main goalkeeping target for the Premier League outfit, with the club also making a contract offer to the youngster.
Talks are progressing well and the deal could soon be on the horizon, as Klaesson looks to become Leeds United’s third senior signing of the new season. The Whites have roped in Junior Firpo from Barcelona so far this summer while Jack Harrison’s move to Manchester City was made permanent for a meagre fee.
On that note, Klaesson isn’t expected to cost a fortune, with earlier reports suggesting a bid close to £1 million. It is quite bizarre, given the fact that the 20-year-old has already established himself as one of the finest young goalkeepers in Scandinavia, notably making 57 competitive appearances for his current club Valerenga.
Meanwhile, the Norwegian whizkid was not Leeds United’s first-choice, as the Whites were linked with a move for Freddie Woodman. The Englishman’s experience in the Championship had made him a more appealing target, but it appears the Newcastle United starlet has snubbed the Yorkshire giants, citing a potential lack of playing opportunities.
Nevertheless, Klaesson is likely being brought in as a direct replacement for Kiko Casilla. The veteran goalkeeper joined Elche CF on loan earlier this month, thus creating a void in the club’s goalkeeping department. His contract also expires in 2023, meaning Leeds United are more than likely to cash in on him sooner rather than later.
However, it has left Marcelo Bielsa with Illan Meslier as the only reliable option in between the sticks at the moment. Although the Frenchman has had immense success over the past 18 months, even becoming one of Europe’s brightest goalkeeping talents, he certainly requires a backup, who can ideally fill in for cup matches.
Klaesson fits the role perfectly, as he has time on his side and has room to improve his game. He is set to start as second fiddle to Meslier, but his qualities in between the sticks, coupled with his tender age and potential should provide further pressure on the Frenchman.
However, the 20-year-old is yet to make a single appearance for the Norwegian national team, which might make it difficult for him to attain a work permit in the UK. Leeds United have applied for such a permit for the youngster, and are hopeful as well, as the youngster had represented Norway in the youth levels.