Lucas Perri makes difficult start after Torino move

Lucas Perri’s early spell at Torino has given Marseille little reason to regret missing out on the Brazilian goalkeeper. The former Olympique Lyonnais player was a leading option for the French club during the summer, but Torino won the race and brought him from Leeds on loan with a purchase option. He arrived in Turin on 29 August after a move that had also involved concerns over his fitness and medical examination.

Perri’s first appearances have been marked by mistakes. He was directly involved in the goal that sent Torino out of the Coppa Italia against Monza, conceding late in the first half after an error. He was also beaten for Fiorentina’s opener, although he recovered to make important saves as Torino won in Florence. Against Roma on the fourth Serie A matchday, he again looked uncomfortable with his distribution and handling of the ball as the visitors won 2-0.

The difficult start contrasts with Perri’s positive assessment of his arrival in Italy before the Roma fixture. He had said that coach Ignazio Abate, his teammates and the city had helped him settle, while stressing how important their confidence was to his adaptation. Another uncertain display, following errors in his previous two matches, has instead increased scrutiny around Torino’s decision to place him in goal so quickly. For Marseille, a pursuit that once appeared to have ended in a missed opportunity now looks less regrettable.