Leeds United are closing in on a deal to sign Eintracht Frankfurt goalkeeper Michael Zetterer as Daniel Farke looks to strengthen his options between the posts.
The 31-year-old has been identified as the experienced deputy to James Trafford, with Leeds United and Eintracht Frankfurt now believed to be close to reaching an agreement. However, several pieces still need to fall into place before the transfer can be completed, with both clubs needing to resolve their respective goalkeeping situations.
Frankfurt are expected to secure a replacement before allowing Zetterer to leave, while Leeds are waiting for Lucas Perri’s proposed move to Torino to be finalised.
Leeds closing in on Michael Zetterer deal
According to Sky Sports News, Zetterer had initially appeared likely to remain with Frankfurt for the coming campaign, but his situation has changed following developments under manager Adi Hutter. Frankfurt are looking at alternative goalkeeping options, leaving Zetterer increasingly open to pursuing a move elsewhere.
Leeds have consequently stepped up their interest and are now reportedly close to reaching an agreement in principle for the German. The plan would be for Zetterer to provide experienced competition and cover for Trafford rather than arrive as the club’s new first-choice goalkeeper.
At 31, he would offer Farke an established option capable of stepping into the side when required, while allowing Leeds to restructure their goalkeeping department ahead of the new season.
Lucas Perri exit key to transfer
Leeds must also resolve Perri’s future before Zetterer’s arrival can be completed. The Brazilian is expected to join Torino on an initial loan, but a minor injury has delayed the final stages of that transfer.
Leeds are waiting for Perri to recover fully before allowing him to complete the switch to Serie A. Meanwhile, Frankfurt are similarly reluctant to sanction Zetterer’s departure until they have secured another goalkeeper. That leaves the transfer dependent on a chain of moves rather than any major disagreement between Leeds and Frankfurt.
This appears to be a deal dictated more by timing than negotiations as Leeds and Frankfurt are moving towards an agreement, while Zetterer’s experience makes him a logical choice to provide reliable cover for Trafford. The main obstacles are Perri’s recovery and Frankfurt finding their own replacement. Once those two issues are resolved, there appears to be a clear pathway for Zetterer to complete his move to Elland Road.
