Lucas Perri left Leeds United for Torino in the summer and his situation is attracting particular attention. Initial assumption that he’d simply slot in at the highest level has been replaced by realism.
The keeper fell out of favour with the Whites in the second half of last season. This led to him considering an exit after a single season and it became clear he was keen on a move to Torino.
Leeds United used Marseille to push the price higher.
He has had an error-strewn start to life in Italy and attempts are underway to make sure things don’t spiral.
Player undergoing specific training
Today’s print edition of Tuttosport goes into the detail behind the 28-year-old’s situation. He has now made errors in three games in a row, also failing against AS Roma on Monday evening. This has caused alarm in Turin, as the Granata have placed quite a bit of trust in the Brazilian.
As a result, the Leeds United loanee has been undergoing targeted training sessions in recent days. He is working with goalkeeping coaches to improve his ability on the ball, especially as he made an error on the ball this week against Roma.
Torino expect him to be better in possession, as Ignazio Abate is keen on building from the back.
Blame is also laid at Leeds United’s door. The newspaper believe lack of game time has had a physical impact on Perri. Daniel Farke’s decision not to use him is held responsible for that. He’s rusty, and it shows.
If Perri had played more last season, he could’ve been an instant fit at Torino. That is why work is being done to make the keeper more agile and athletic for the rest of the season.
| Every Leeds United signing 26/27 | Previous Club | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| James Trafford | Manchester City | £40m |
| Tarik Muharemović | Sassuolo | £34m |
| Nico Elvedi | Borussia Mönchengladbach | £7m |
| Michael Zetterer | Eintracht Frankfurt | €5m |
| Harry Wilson | Fulham | Free |
| Melvin Bard | OGC Nice | Loan |
| Jean-Mattéo Bahoya | Eintracht Frankfurt | Loan |
Adaptation period is normal
While this feels like a rude awakening for Torino, it is a normal adaptation period for Perri. He has never played in Italy and more than that, he has never been a ball-playing keeper either. So taking time to adapt is normal, in this case.
It is a positive that the club have acknowledged that the 28-year-old needs help in that regard. Moreover, the player has clarified he is living in a hotel and is yet to find a more long term place. He needs to settle.
