Kiko Casilla will hopefully be a Leeds United player by the time Marcelo Bielsa’s side head to Stoke City on Saturday afternoon.

Leeds are close to agreeing a deal with Casilla, with the Yorkshire Evening Post confirming that the Real Madrid goalkeeper is the man the Whites want to compete with Bailey Peacock-Farrell over the course of the season.

The YEP’s latest transfer report states that Leeds are hoping to have a deal in place before next weekend, with the trip to Stoke City in mind.

Madrid’s 32-year-old goalkeeper is now third choice for the La Liga giants, which has opened up the possibility of him joining Leeds.

Bielsa’s Whites are expected to wrap up a permanent transfer for the goalkeeper’s service, with Leeds set to pay up the remaining 18 months of Casilla’s contract in Madrid, meaning no transfer fee is required.

Peacock-Farrell, whilst being No.1 throughout the whole Championship season so far, has had no competition for his place since November.

Jamal Blackman broke his leg featuring for Leeds’ under-23s earlier in the season, which forced him to return to Chelsea and cut his loan spell at Elland Road short.

The Verdict

This will be a big boost for Leeds if they can get the Madrid stopper on board to take on Stoke.

Whilst the Potters haven’t been anywhere near as good as expected this season, they’re a good squad and will serve Leeds a stern test.

Peacock-Farrell could count himself unlucky to lose his place to Casilla straight away, but the presence of the 32-year-old at the bet365 Stadium will make a big difference.

Thoughts? Let us know!