Leeds United tipped to sign Viktor Johansson if ‘outstanding’ Illan Meslier exits
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 has urged Leeds United to sign a “proven” Championship goalkeeper if Illan Meslier departs the club in the coming weeks.
Football League World reported on 21 June that Rotherham’s Viktor Johansson and Preston North End’s Freddie Woodman are on the board’s wishlist.
Meslier, who is currently valued in the region of £40million (Football Insider, 12 April), was dropped for the final four matches of the 2022/23 Premier League season.
“They’re Championship-proven [Woodman and Johansson] but I would be doing everything to keep Meslier. He’s an outstanding young goalkeeper,” Robinson exclusively told MOT Leeds News.
“A year in the Championship might not do him any harm. I am a big admirer of him. He had a dip in confidence playing in a team that was shipping goals for fun and it’s not nice as a goalkeeper playing in a team like that.
“It seemed to be never-ending. I wouldn’t be disappointed at all to see him stay next season. I believe he will go on with the national squad and also play Champions League football somewhere.
“Keeping him would be ideal – if Robles leaves. If Meslier departs they have to sign a tried and tested Championship goalkeeper.”
Meslier is currently away with France’s under-21s for their European Championship campaign in Georgia.
In other Leeds United news, multiple Los Angeles investors backed out of the Whites takeover deal amid Paraag Marathe Zoom calls.