Leeds close in on James Trafford as striker search shifts

Lucas Perri’s move to Torino is advancing, with a medical expected soon as Leeds clear the way for James Trafford’s arrival.
Elche are interested in Leeds forward Mateo Joseph, though no concrete move is confirmed. The Spain Under-21 striker is recovering from a serious injury and is not in Leeds’ plans.
Leeds faced Sunderland in New Jersey with Harry Wilson pushing for a first start. Alex Cairns looked set to be the only senior keeper as Trafford talks and Perri’s exit continued.
Leeds target Shea Charles was left out of Southampton’s friendly as talks drag on. The midfielder wants Elland Road, but Leeds will not meet Saints’ £30m asking price.
Leeds face Liverpool in a pre-season friendly in Chicago on 2 August at 9pm BST. Farke’s side have beaten Sunderland after losing to Wrexham, with Harry Wilson featuring in both games.
Sassuolo sporting director Francesco Palmieri says Tarik Muharemovic’s move to Leeds was a 'great opportunity for the boy' and reflects the club’s model of developing and selling talent.
Former Leeds academy striker Max Dean is wanted by Millwall after scoring seven goals for Gent on his return from a long-term knee injury. Other Championship clubs are also keen.
Leeds are reportedly eyeing Burnley attacker Zian Flemming after setbacks elsewhere. The Dutchman scored 11 Premier League goals last season and is also wanted by Coventry City and Brentford.
Leeds are closing in on James Trafford for an initial £40m, plus £5m in add-ons, with Manchester City now targeting Geronimo Rulli as his replacement. Club confidence is growing over a swift deal.
A view on Leeds’ ideal squad has James Trafford in goal and four more additions, including a backup keeper, midfielder, winger and striker, to deepen Farke’s options.
Eddie Howe’s reported Newcastle exit is framed as a boost for Leeds, with a direct rival facing summer upheaval before the new Premier League season.
Leeds beat Sunderland 1-0 in New Jersey as Lukas Nmecha scored from distance. Debutant Tarik Muharemovic impressed in a composed clean-sheet display.
Graham Smyth says Leeds are not pursuing Liam Delap despite reports. The Whites still want a striker, with Carlos Espi admired but no move made.
Leeds-linked Harvey Elliott says he is unsure over his Liverpool future and will speak to Andoni Iraola. The midfielder says he must do what is right, whether staying or going elsewhere.
Leeds are back in the race for Neom midfielder Amadou Koné, with West Ham and Hull City also keen. Hull have reportedly made contact, while the player’s stance remains unclear.
Leeds have missed out on striker target Carlos Espi after Real Madrid triggered his £21.4m release clause and sealed a five-year deal.
Leeds are still pushing on in the transfer market, with recruitment seen as vital to avoid second-season syndrome after survival.
Leeds missed out on Zion Suzuki, with the Parma and Japan keeper preferring Juventus. The Whites have since moved on and are close to signing James Trafford.
Valencia remain actively interested in Largie Ramazani, but Leeds want to recoup as much of their £10m fee as possible and no agreement has been reached.
Leeds are named among clubs tracking Club Brugge striker Nicolo Tresoldi, while Roma have bid €35m and Manchester United and Chelsea are also linked.