Leeds United goalkeeper seals permanent transfer after successful loan spell

Leeds goalkeeper Elia Caprile has sealed a permanent transfer to Italian club Bari after a successful loan spell with Aurora Pro Patria last season.

Caprile joined Leeds in January 2020 but did not manage to make a first-team appearance for the Whites, despite being a regular for the Under-23s during 2020/21.

The 20-year-old was a Premier League 2 Division 2 title winner with Leeds last year, however sought regular minutes at senior level before the 2021/22 campaign commenced.

The young Italian has remained behind Illan Meslier in the pecking order at Elland Road and with last summer’s arrival of Norway Under-21 international Kristoffer Klaesson, the stopper moved out on loan.

In picking up 13 clean sheets for Pro Patria last term, Caprile alerted Bari sporting director Ciro Polito – a former goalkeeper himself – of his ability.

The club executive confirmed to the YEP last month that a deal was close to being agreed.

That move has now been completed as the youngster signs what is understood to be a three-year deal in Puglia.

Caprile will compete for the No. 1 spot with veteran ‘keeper Pierluigi Frattali at Stadio San Nicola, which holds 58,270 fans and is currently undergoing renovations ahead of the side's return to Italy’s second tier.

Leeds United have thanked Caprile for his efforts whilst at the club.