Leeds United‘s Illan Meslier is the subject of interest from Chelsea, who could make a move for the goalkeeper the summer.
That’s according to Pete O’Rourke of Football Insider, who claims that Graham Potter is in search of a new number one this summer, with Meslier said to be one of their targets.
Meslier is under contract until 2026 at Elland Road, and has already been linked to a number of clubs over the last few seasons with the club. The 23-year-old would command a fairly hefty fee to be lured away from the Whites’ hands.
The Frenchman has played 119 games for the Whites, 100 of which have come in the Premier League, making him the youngest to do so in the history of the Premier League, as per Opta.
Could Meslier move to Chelsea?
O’Rourke believes that Chelsea are now keen to change ‘keepers in the summer, he said: “Chelsea have joined the race to sign Leeds United goalkeeper Illan Meslier this summer, sources have told Football Insider.
“Graham Potter has informed the Blues board that he would like a new goalkeeper in the summer, and Leeds’ 23-year-old shot-stopper has been highlighted as a potential target.”
However, the move may be contingent on Leeds’ Premier League status, he added: “The Blues believe Meslier could be one of the cheaper options on their shopping list if Leeds were demoted to the Championship.”
Chelsea may sell Edouard Mendy to help raise funds towards Meslier, O’Rourke wrote: “Potter has often preferred Kepa Arrizabalaga to Mendy at Stamford Bridge this season, and the latter could be sold by Chelsea to raise funds.”
The big updated Illan Meslier quiz – Can Leeds United fans score 20/20?
The Whites will likely sell Meslier if they are relegated, as he would be a good way for them to make some money back on some losses that come with relegation.
However, they should look for a huge fee if they stay in the division, especially from a club like Chelsea. The Whites have one of the best shot stoppers in his age group in world football, despite the mistakes made at times.
Fans are quick to jump on those, but also forget that he has been so exposed under both of his managers in the Premier League before Javi Gracia’s arrival.
In a decent team he would develop much better than he has at Elland Road, but the amount of shots he faces invites mistakes and forces him into more difficult situations than your average goalkeeper.
Can you see Meslier leaving in the next 12 months?
Yes
No
You can be as interested as you want mate. Come up with £80m and I dare say Leeds may prick up their ears