Leeds United could come calling for €20m-rated captain of champions elect

Leeds United have joined the race for Trabzonspor goalkeeper Ugurcan Cakir and will be keeping a close eye on his international performances, reports in Turkey claim.

Ugurcan Cakir has been linked with a transfer to the Premier League for a number of years. He came through the youth ranks at Trabzonspor before a senior debut in 2014. Since then, he has built up his reputation and is currently captain of his club.

What’s more, the 25-year-old has established himself as Turkey’s number one. As such, he has emerged onto the radar of clubs outside his homeland.

According to Turkish source Fanatik, the latest to show an interest is Leeds United. In fact, they have reportedly made contact with his agent.

Fanatik predict that Leeds may make an approach to Trabzonspor in the future. The Super Lig leaders would be looking for a fee of around €20m (around £16.7m).

For now, Trabzonspor are focusing on securing the Turkish title. With a 15-point advantage at the top, though, it seems a matter of when, not if. After that, they could deal with offers for their key players.

The report reminds that Cakir has also been of interest to Newcastle United, who are looking for a new goalkeeper to overtake Martin Dubravka in the pecking order.

Further afield, Sevilla are also showing an interest in taking Cakir to La Liga for the first time in his career. In that move, he would be a potential successor to Yassine Bounou.

A move to Leeds, meanwhile, would see him compete with Illan Meslier for the starting spot at Elland Road. Meslier, 22, has been a consistent starter for Leeds since their return to the Premier League in 2020.

Interest in Cakir, though, may indicate a desire to keep him on his toes, or to replace him as number one altogether.

But with several suitors, it is no guarantee that Leeds will be the ones to take Cakir in the summer.

Ugurcan Cakir added to Newcastle shortlist

Last week, a report claimed Newcastle could make a move for Cakir at the end of the season.

But more recent reports revealed the Magpies are working from a four-man shortlist. Cakir’s name was not one of them.

According to the Daily Mail, the players on Newcastle’s radar are Dean Henderson, Kepa Arrizabalaga, Bernd Leno and Sam Johnstone.

All have Premier League experience, but the first three are not first choice at their current clubs. The latter, meanwhile, will become a free agent in the summer.

Whether there is room for Newcastle to consider Cakir as well, only time will tell. If not, there may be further links with Leeds or other suitors.

Cakir is under contract with Trabzonspor until 2024, with the option for a further year. His next appearance for the club will be his 150th.

He has kept 38 clean sheets during his time with Trabzonspor so far.

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