Illan Meslier to quit Leeds United within months as Elland Road form suffers – Sky Sports pundit
We’re delighted to welcome former England goalkeeper Paul Robinson as our exclusive columnist as each week he’ll be giving his views on the biggest talking points at Leeds United…
Paul Robinson can see Illan Meslier leaving Leeds United in the summer with Manchester United reportedly interested in the 22-year-old.
The Sun reported (18 February) that United are monitoring the Frenchman and view him as a “long-term” replacement for David De Gea.
Despite his form dipping of late, Robinson still feels Meslier has the potential to step up if he can perform consistently.
“I can see him [Meslier] going in the summer but I think his form has dipped in recent weeks. He’s letting in goals which you wouldn’t expect him to let in,” Robinson exclusively told MOT Leeds News.
“He’s an excellent goalkeeper who has developed really really well, I am a big admirer of his but this is his third Premier League season and he’s got to do it continuously at the top level. He was excellent when Bielsa gave him a chance and he’s continued that in the first half of this season.
“I think he’s by far and away number one and I wonder sometimes if there’s enough competition behind him to push him to the next level. I have no doubt he can step up and I am still amazed he’s not been in a French squad when they’ve got Areola and Mandanda on the bench behind Lloris.
“Areola isn’t even playing regularly and I wonder why Meslier can’t get into that squad. I do think he’s got the potential to improve and get better but it’s about consistency. I think he’s got the potential but it’s now about doing it consistently.“
Despite being caught out for Everton’s winner last week, the Frenchman has been an ever-present in the Leeds United goal in the 2022/23 campaign.
He is contracted to the club until the summer of 2026, and will likely command a sizable transfer fee if he does depart in the summer.
In other Leeds United news, Phil Hay has shared an update on the coaching staff Gracia is bringing to the club.