Giant £34 million purchase
Leeds United have announced their second most expensive signing ever – and now they want England’s top goalkeeper subject.
Leeds have confirmed that Bosnian Tarik Muharemovic is ready for the club. The defender joins from Sassuolo for a staggering £34 million – the second-highest transfer fee in the club’s history.
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But Leeds doesn’t stop there. Now they are also looking for a new goalkeeper – and have been given the opportunity to bring in Brighton’s Carl Rushworth.
Brighton opens for sale
Rushworth, 25 years old, is considered one of England’s most promising goalkeeper talents. Many in the football community see him as a future national team goalkeeper – and a real challenger to Jordan Pickford.
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However, Brighton are in a difficult situation. Rushworth does not want to sign a new contract unless he is guaranteed to be the first goalkeeper. As long as Dutch Bart Verbruggen stays, Rushworth is only second.
Therefore, Brighton are now willing to sell – to avoid losing him for less later, or for free next summer.
Leeds and Newcastle in action
Leeds and Newcastle have both been approached by intermediaries regarding Rushworth. Newcastle are looking for a new first-choice goalkeeper and have previously been heavily linked with James Trafford, but have now also been offered Rushworth.
For Leeds, the interest is extra urgent. The club has already lost Karl Darlow (to Manchester United) and Illan Meslier (to Arsenal). Now they are left with only two goalkeepers – and both can disappear.
More goalkeeper options
Leeds have several irons in the fire. Japanese Zion Suzuki from Parma is still a priority, but the club are unsure if they can convince him to choose Leeds over a club with European Cup appearances.
Other names on the block include:
- James Trafford (Manchester City)
- Guillaume Restes (Toulouse)
Rushworth – a serious alternative
Rushworth impressed on loan at Coventry last season, and Coventry want him back. But Leeds and Newcastle are now serious contenders.
If Brighton decide to sell, both Leeds and Newcastle are ready to test Brighton’s will. Thus, we could have an exciting Premier League battle for one of England’s most sought-after young goalkeepers.
