Trabzonspor goalkeeper Ugurcan Cakir is reportedly on Leeds United’s radar. The Whites have been hit with a second-season syndrome in the Premier League as they find themselves 16th in the table, seven points above the dreaded relegation zone.
New manager Jesse Marsch has managed to instil some fight and discipline in the squad, winning the last two games to enter the international break on a high note.
According to the Turkish media outlet Fanatik, Leeds United are in talks with the agent of Trabzonspor goalkeeper Ugurcan Cakir ahead of a possible summer swoop.
One of the highly-rated goalkeepers in the continent, Cakir, 25, has played an instrumental role for Trabzonspor this season. They have established a 15-point lead at the summit of the league table after 30 games and look set to win the Super Lig title for the first time after the 1983-84 triumph.
Cakir represented Turkey at Euro 2020 and has been attracting interest from clubs across Europe following his eye-catching performances in the Super Lig over the last few seasons. However, Trabzonspor would only part ways with their captain if any club meets their £17million valuation, the report adds.
Ugurcan Cakir to Leeds United – The experience they need?
Illan Meslier arrived as a teenager in England from French side Lorient in 2020 and has slowly but steadily grown as a goalkeeper at Leeds United. While he has become a fan favourite at Elland Road, the 22-year-old has faced criticism for his shot-stopping ability this season. In fact, he has conceded the most number of goals in the Premier League so far at 67.
Victor Orta initiates Ugurcan Cakir transfer talks 👇https://t.co/Q0XOsCvluY
— LUFCMOT (@LUFCMOTcom) March 22, 2022
While Meslier is still very young and has a lot of time to iron the flaws out of his game, Leeds United are seemingly looking out for a new goalkeeper. Ugurcan Cakir has emerged as a potential target for the Whites, possibly after the season Meslier has had in goal.
Cakir has played 28 times in the Super Lig this term, conceding just 23 goals and keeping ten clean sheets in the process. With 3.6 total saves, 27.4 total passes, 9.4 accurate long balls and 7.8 accurate short passes made per game, the Turkish international is currently regarded as one of the best goalkeepers in the division. (stats courtesy: whoscored.com)
It goes without saying that the 25-year-old has played a crucial role in helping Abdullah Avci’s side to the top of the pile in the Super Lig.
Given Leeds’ defensive problems this season, signing Cakir to create some much-needed competition for Meslier might be the best possible solution. At 25, he fits the bill perfectly at Elland Road and would represent a smart signing for a rumoured valuation of £17million.