Leeds United Goalkeeper Exit Looms Ahead Of Heavy Interest

Since Brazilian goalkeeper Lucas Perri arrived at Leeds United this summer, an exit for Ilan Meslier has felt inevitable.

Ever since Leeds dropped out of the Premier League, Meslier’s stock has declined following a series of shaky performances in goal during the club’s time in the Championship.

The Frenchman’s fate was effectively sealed earlier this year when Karl Darlow was preferred as Leeds’ number one from March through to the start of the 2024/25 pre-season.

With the transfer window closing soon, few Leeds fans would be surprised if a deal for Meslier is finalised before deadline day.

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Host Of Clubs Pursuing Meslier

According to Foot Mercato journalist Santi Arouna, the West Yorkshire club has received interest from three different clubs so far for the service of Meslier.

French side Lorient have reportedly tabled a bid, which, if accepted, would see Meslier return to his former club in Ligue 1.

Meanwhile, La Liga outfit Valencia, who are already set to take Leeds winger Largie Ramazani on loan, are also keen. Their pursuit depends on selling goalkeeper Stole Dimitrievski to free up funds.

Rangers are another contender after a poor start to the season under manager Russell Martin. With pressure already mounting on the former Southampton boss, Meslier has been identified as a possible solution.

The move, however, raises eyebrows given that the 49ers Enterprises consortium, who own Leeds, also hold a stake in Rangers. Their first-hand experience of Meslier’s blunders last season makes the decision questionable, though it appears he would be lined up to replace Jack Butland in Glasgow.

A Bitter Sweet Farewell

For much of 2024/25, Meslier was Daniel Farke’s regular first-choice keeper, but his dip in form eventually saw him replaced by Darlow.

This season, Meslier has failed to make the first two Premier League matchday squads, signalling that his time at Elland Road is coming to an end.

By the back end of last season, his market value had plummeted due to inconsistent displays. Leeds now appear more focused on removing him from the wage bill before the September 1 deadline than holding out for a big fee. He is expected to command a fee of around £5million.

It is a dramatic fall for a goalkeeper once touted as a future France number one.

At this point, it feels like a parting of ways suits everyone. Leeds United no longer need Meslier, and Meslier no longer needs Leeds.