Turkish powerhouse Beşiktaş has identified Leeds United goalkeeper Lucas Perri as a key target as they seek to resolve their ongoing goalkeeping crisis. The news was reported by well-respected journalist Ertan Süzgün.
Beşiktaş Targets Lucas Perri of Leeds United Following Departure of Günok to Fenerbahçe
Süzgün has confirmed that the Black Eagles are keeping a close eye on the Brazilian goalkeeper amidst a tumultuous January transfer window for the Istanbul club, who are scrambling to reshape their squad after several significant player departures.
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Throughout January, Beşiktaş has been actively balancing their finances, allowing player exits that have accrued around €32 million. Tammy Abraham, Demir Ege Tıknaz, and Rafa Silva have all parted ways with the club, providing the management with crucial funds for reinvestment.
However, the club faced their most painful loss when veteran keeper Mert Günok transferred to arch-rivals Fenerbahçe, creating a major void in goal. This situation has intensified the need for a new first-choice goalkeeper, and Süzgün has indicated that Perri is a leading candidate to fill Günok’s role.
Perri’s Rocky Start at Elland Road
NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – JANUARY 07: Lucas Perri of Leeds United acknowledges the supporters after the Premier League match against Newcastle United at St James’ Park on January 07, 2026. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
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Perri’s current status at Leeds provides a peculiar backdrop to these transfer discussions. The 28-year-old joined Elland Road last summer with expectations of being Daniel Farke’s first-choice goalkeeper. However, his season has been marked by ups and downs.
Initially, Perri secured a starting position in late October and enjoyed a period of consistent play that suggested he was adapting well to the Premier League. Yet, he was unexpectedly benched for Leeds’ last two league matches, raising questions about his long-term role within the club.
This sudden change has caught the attention of clubs like Beşiktaş. For Leeds United, the timing presents a challenging dilemma as the transfer deadline approaches. Selling a goalkeeper just six months after his signing might indicate a miscalculated recruitment strategy.
Nonetheless, Farke’s decision to bench Perri suggests some lingering doubt regarding his capabilities. If Beşiktaş offers a fee that matches the summer investment or possibly yields a profit, Leeds might be tempted to part ways with him.
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Despite this, selling now could be hasty. Goalkeepers typically need an entire season to adjust to the rigors of English football. Without a suitable replacement readily available, allowing Perri to leave would leave Leeds vulnerable in a critical position.
Leeds should reject the interest from Beşiktaş and reinstate Perri to help rebuild his confidence rather than make an impulsive decision based on a temporary downturn in performance. Perri possesses the potential to succeed, and Leeds must remain steadfast.