Championship side Leeds United are keen to add former player Alex Cairns to their squad from League Two Salford City after registering an interest in the goalkeeper.
The 31-year-old began his career in the Leeds United youth academy remaining with the club until 2015, enjoying loan spells at Barrow and Stalybridge Celtic. Moves to Chesterfield and Rotherham United came after his departure with the player failing to make an impact on the first team.
In July 2016, he signed for Fleetwood Town, going on to establish himself as their first-choice goalkeeper. He made 240 appearances for the club, keeping 77 clean sheets before leaving to link up with Salford, initially on loan then on a permanent deal.
Cairns has registered 77 appearances for the club, keeping 12 cleans sheets as his side continues their stay in League Two. The shot-stopper is notably absent from the club’s friendly squad today (7/7/24).
Now, according to Football Insider, Leeds United are interested in re-signing their former player. Salford only hold a year left on their contract with the 31-year-old, meaning that they could look to accept an offer rather than risk losing him for free. With Illan Meslier and Karl Darlow already at Elland Road, it will likely mean Cairns will join as a third-choice option for Daniel Farke’s side.
A big loss for Salford
This potential move has come out of the blue somewhat, Salford are not blessed with options in the goalkeeping department and having to replace their first-choice option, when they hadn’t expected to may divert resources and effort away from other vital areas of improvement.
The club have somewhat stagnated since their run into League Two. They have settled into a solid mid-table side, without really challenging at the top end of the table. Keeping hold of their assets could be vital as they look to improve and push up towards the business end of the table.