Zetterer appears to be the closer move. The report says Leeds want him as experienced cover for Trafford after a summer reset in goal, with Karl Darlow having moved on and Trafford installed as the clear No. 1. That makes the depth chart the key issue rather than the starting role.
The same update says Lucas Perri could leave on loan for Torino. If that happens, Leeds would be left with Alex Cairns as the only other senior option. In that context, the Zetterer move looks practical rather than speculative. Frankfurt also appear to be preparing for his exit, with the report saying they are finalising a loan for Freiburg goalkeeper Noah Atubolu.
Epolo remains in the frame, but as a different type of signing. At 21, he looks more like a development option with upside than a short-term safety net.
This is a squad-building decision shaped by role clarity. Trafford joined for a club-record fee and is expected to remain first choice, so Leeds do not need a challenger as much as they need reliability behind him.
Zetterer offers that profile. The report points to experience in the Bundesliga and Eredivisie, plus Champions League appearances. Epolo, by contrast, would give Leeds a younger asset with room to grow. Those are two very different market plays.
The immediate next step is Zetterer’s medical. If that goes through, Leeds would secure the experienced cover they currently lack.
After that, attention will likely turn to Perri’s future and whether Leeds still want another goalkeeper. Other reports suggest interest in Epolo from elsewhere has cooled, which could leave Leeds with room to act if they decide they want both security now and longer-term upside.