Leeds United have Shakhtar Donetsk's Dmytro Riznyk on their 'radar' amid goalkeeping department uncertainty
Leeds United credited with interest Shakhtar Donetsk and Ukraine goalkeeper Dmytro Riznyk
Leeds United reportedly have Shakhtar Donetsk goalkeeper Dmytro Riznyk on their radar ahead of the summer transfer window.
Illan Meslier was dislodged by Karl Darlow in the final months of the 2024/25 campaign, prompting Leeds to put a new goalkeeper on their shopping list.
A reported £15.6m was paid to prise Lucas Perri from Lyon but the Brazilian underwhelmed in his maiden campaign, following Meslier’s path by losing his place to Darlow.
It now appears likely Leeds will return to the goalkeeper market this summer to secure a new number one for the 2026/27 season.
Leeds United linked with Ukraine international
According to Football Insider, four-cap Ukraine international Riznyk is on Leeds’ radar. The 27-year-old is currently the first-choice stopper for Shakhtar, who signed him from Vorskla Poltava in 2023.
He has amassed 116 appearances across all competitions for the Ukrainian giants, impressing in both domestic and European competitions.
Football Insider’s Pete O’Rourle told told the Transfer Insider Podcast: “Riznyk has done well for Shakhtar Donetsk this season, helped them win the league. I think he kept 22 clean sheets, so he has really impressed for the Ukrainian club.
“The player himself has played down the suggestions of a move to Leeds, he says he’s heard nothing of the reported interest in him.
“But look, I’m sure Leeds will be doing their homework on a number of goalkeepers. It’s going to be an area of the team they’re going to have to strengthen.”
Karl Darlow’s position
Darlow has been a reliable deputy in recent months, performing strongly just as he did for the Championship run-in last year. However, the Wales international may not be a long-term solution at 35.
He is due to see his Leeds contract expire next month and even if he not being lined up for the number one spot next term, Darlow is arguably deserving of an extension.
Reports have indicated Leeds will look to keep him, which would please Whites icon Tony Dorigo. In an interview with The Yorkshire Post earlier month, he said: “I think he’s been really solid for us. It's clear the defenders feel confident in him and vice versa, I think that sort of ‘keeper is always valuable.
“Whether it's as number one or two, who knows, that's up to the manager, but I think as a character and with what he's done, he's been very impressive.”