Leeds’ New First-Choice Goalkeeper Declares Full Fitness Ahead of Premier League Debut, While Manager Reveals Position in Goalkeeping Hierarchy

Lucas Perri is confident he’s in top physical condition and prepared to start for Leeds United in their upcoming Premier League match. The 27-year-old goalkeeper made his debut in Saturday’s friendly against AC Milan in Ireland, playing the first 45 minutes before being replaced.

Signed from Lyon for £15.6 million on July 26, Perri only recently began training with his teammates after recovering from a minor injury. “I’m completely fit,” he stated. “I had a small hamstring issue a few weeks ago, so the team took a cautious approach, but now I feel 100% ready to go.”

During his debut, Perri showcased his impressive 50-meter throws, a skill he credits to guidance from his goalkeeping coach, Daniel Correia, at Botafogo. “I’ve loved throwing since I was young,” he explained. “In training, I used to do it often, and my coach encouraged me to use it in matches. I’ve been doing these long throws since childhood.”

He wore the No 1 jersey, previously held by Illan Meslier, during the friendly. Manager Daniel Farke clarified that Meslier was left behind on the trip because he is not currently part of the first-team plans. “We decided to play two goalkeepers, so he didn’t need to travel,” Farke said. “I wanted Lucas to get the first 45 minutes, and Karl Darlow is ahead of Meslier in the pecking order.”

Farke emphasized that the number 1 shirt was given to Perri to boost his confidence and recognize the club’s investment in him. “We brought Lucas in for a significant fee by our standards, so it’s natural he might start against Everton,” the manager noted. “This decision isn’t against Illan; it’s to help Lucas settle in and understand his role in the squad.”

Leeds will open their league campaign at home against Everton next Monday night, with Perri expected to be part of the squad’s plans.