**Lucas Perri Requests Iconic No. 1 Shirt as Leeds United Move Nears**
Leeds United’s imminent signing of Lyon goalkeeper Lucas Perri has sparked intrigue, with reports indicating the Brazilian has boldly requested the club strip the iconic No. 1 shirt from current keeper Illan Meslier. The 27-year-old shot-stopper, set to join for a reported €15 million (£13 million), is poised to become Leeds’ seventh summer signing as they prepare for their Premier League return. Perri’s arrival signals a significant shift at Elland Road, with Meslier’s future increasingly unclear
Perri, standing at 6ft 5in, has established himself as one of Ligue 1’s top goalkeepers, keeping 10 clean sheets in 33 appearances for Lyon last season. His save percentage of 74.5% and 3.8 goals prevented above expected showcase his elite shot-stopping ability, addressing the defensive frailties exposed by Meslier’s errors during Leeds’ Championship campaign. Manager Daniel Farke dropped Meslier for Karl Darlow in the final seven games, a decision that secured the title but highlighted the Frenchman’s inconsistencies.
The request for the No. 1 shirt, currently worn by Meslier, underscores Perri’s ambition to claim the first-choice role. While Meslier has not been forced out, speculation suggests he may seek first-team football elsewhere, with Leicester City among the clubs linked. Perri’s preference for the No. 23 shirt, his favorite, is also an option, as it’s vacant at Leeds, but his push for the No. 1 signals confidence in displacing the club’s long-standing
Perri’s throwing ability has excited fans, with his long, accurate distributions seen as a potential “secret weapon” for counter-attacks, especially alongside pacey wingers like Dan James. Lyon’s financial troubles, despite their Ligue 1 reinstatement, have facilitated the deal, with Perri’s medical already scheduled. His prior stint at Crystal Palace in 2019, though without game time, adds Premier League familiarity.
As Leeds aim to solidify their defense, Perri’s arrival could be pivotal. His request for the No. 1 shirt, a number tied to club legend Nigel Martyn, has raised eyebrows, but it reflects his intent to make an immediate impact. With Meslier’s departure looming, Perri is set to redefine Leeds’ goalkeeping era
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