Leeds United are understood to be in advanced negotiations to secure the signing of Torino`s imposing goalkeeper, Vanja Milinkovic-Savic. This development signals a clear intention from the Elland Road club to address the crucial position ahead of their return to the Premier League.
The Need for Reinforcement
The push for a new goalkeeper follows a season where Illan Meslier`s performance drew significant scrutiny. While undoubtedly talented, a series of inconsistent displays, particularly towards the latter part of the campaign, led to the young Frenchman being temporarily replaced. Naturally, the club leadership and coaching staff will be keen to ensure they possess a reliable, commanding presence between the posts for the challenging Premier League season ahead.
Interestingly, initial reports suggested Leeds were prioritising strengthening their outfield options early in the transfer window. However, with progress being made in other areas, attention has now shifted firmly to the goalkeeping department, with Milinkovic-Savic emerging as a prime target.
Milinkovic-Savic: A Closer Look at the Target
At 28 years old, Vanja Milinkovic-Savic offers a blend of experience and proven quality in a top European league. The Serbian international currently plies his trade in Serie A with Torino, where his performances have garnered considerable attention.
Central to Leeds` pursuit is the existence of a release clause in Milinkovic-Savic`s contract. For clubs outside of Serie A, this clause stands at just over €20 million, equating to roughly £17 million. This presents a direct, albeit significant, route to acquiring the player`s services without protracted negotiations, provided the clause is met.
However, the clock is ticking. The release clause is reportedly only active until the end of the current month. This imposes a degree of urgency on Leeds` decision-making process, especially with competition potentially looming from elsewhere, including recently crowned Serie A champions Napoli.
Hailed as “One of the Best”
Praise for Milinkovic-Savic is not in short supply. He has been described in glowing terms, including being labelled as “one of the best in Europe” in his position. While such accolades from club officials can sometimes be viewed with a touch of hyperbole, the statistics from his performances over the past year provide a compelling argument for his quality.
Key performance indicators highlight his effectiveness:
- Save Percentage: 77.5% (ranking in the 93rd percentile among goalkeepers)
- Goals Against per 90: 1.14 (75th percentile)
- Penalty Save Percentage: A remarkable 57.1% (91st percentile)
- Touches per 90: 46.95 (98th percentile)
These numbers paint a picture of a goalkeeper who is not only excellent at shot-stopping, particularly from the spot – a valuable trait indeed – but also comfortable and involved in the team`s build-up play, suggested by his high number of touches.
The £17 Million Question
The decision for Leeds United now centres on whether to trigger the £17 million release clause. It represents a substantial investment for a club returning to the top flight, but the opportunity to sign a goalkeeper with Milinkovic-Savic`s profile and statistical backing is undoubtedly tempting. He appears to possess the qualities required to be a commanding and reliable number one in the Premier League.
With the end-of-month deadline for the release clause rapidly approaching and other clubs potentially entering the fray, Leeds faces a crucial few days. Securing a goalkeeper of this calibre could be a pivotal piece in building a squad capable of competing effectively in the Premier League.
