Leeds United Plot Move For Spanish Custodian: An Ideal Replacement For Casilla? | OneFootball

According to Yorkshire Evening Post, Leeds United have expressed interest in Dani Cardenas. The Levante goalkeeper is one of the three candidates identified as a potential replacement for Kiko Casilla, who has recently joined Elche on loan. Cardenas is joined by Freddie Woodman and Kristoffer Klaesson, with the goalkeeper’s current contract at Levante expiring at the end of next season.

Who Is Dani Cardenas?

A product of the Levante youth academy, Dani Cardenas is not an established goalkeeper by any means. He was promoted to the club’s senior side at the start of the year, at the age of 23.

However, in just a few months, he managed to dethrone Aitor Fernandez in between the sticks for Levante. While initially a cup goalkeeper, the 24-year-old ended the campaign with eight appearances in La Liga.

In merely half a season, Cardenas has become a revelation at Levante, an absolute rock in between the goal. His incredible shot-stopping abilities, combined with his clever positioning, awareness and risk-taking quality have propelled him as one of the most sought-after goalkeepers in Spain.

As such, Cardenas is now a favourite to start the new season as Levante’s first-choice ‘keeper. However, his current contract expires in 2022, and although the Spanish outfit do have the option to extend his contract for two years, the goalkeeper does indeed face an uncertain future at the club.

Levante UD v Cadiz CF – La Liga Santander Levante s goalkeeper Dani Cardenas during spanish La Liga match between Levante UD and Cadiz CF at Ciutat de Valencia Stadium on May 21, 2021 in Valencia, Spain. Valencia Spain fernandezdevelascosanz-levanteu210521_npBMo PUBLICATIONxNOTxINxFRA Copyright: xJosexMiguelxFernandezx

Should Leeds United Make The Investment?

Leeds United are desperate to sign a new goalkeeper this summer, after sanctioning the loan departure for Kiko Casilla. The veteran custodian has joined Elche, leaving a massive void in the club’s goalkeeping unit, with Illan Meslier remaining the only viable option.

Dani Cardenas could be an excellent number two, given his rapid rise to prominence over the last six months. He has showcased his potential at the highest level of football, emerging as one of La Liga’s rising stars.

At the age of just 24, the Spaniard already has time on his side. His hunger to perform well and gain a prominent role in the side could make him an ideal competitor for Illan Meslier, who himself is regarded as arguably the most talented young goalkeeper in the Premier League.

Cardenas’ expiring contract also works in favour of Leeds United, as they might be able to secure his services for a cut-price. However, it remains to be seen whether Cardenas would want to make the switch to Elland Road, knowing he may have difficulties in gaining regular game-time.