Leeds United must keep Illan Meslier after Premier League promotion
Leeds United need to consider keeping Illan Meslier beyond this season, ahead of their Premier League return.
With promotion now guaranteed for the Yorkshire giants, attention is starting to turn toward what needs to be done with the squad moving forward to ensure it’s competitive in the top flight.
Daniel Farke is obviously going to want to strengthen his options to ensure they’re ready to fight for their survival next season, especially since all three promoted sides from the previous campaign are all being relegated this time around.
Leeds United are looking to sign a top striker to provide Farke’s squad with some firepower, but there will also need to be defensive improvements due to the qualities of the Premier League.
Leeds United should give Meslier another chance
The future of Meslier has been a big talking point for a lot of fans after what has been a rollercoaster career at Elland Road, none more so than this season.
There is no doubt about the quality that the 25-year-old does have, as he is capable of pulling off some fantastic saves at times.
However, there are big question marks over his concentration, as his career has been littered with costly mistakes that have hurt his teammates in big moments.
| 2024-25 Stats | Meslier |
| Appearance | 39 |
| Goals conceded | 27 |
| Clean sheets | 21 |
| Minutes played | 3,510 |
He has found himself dropped out of the starting lineup lately for Leeds as Farke has preferred Karl Darlow, but that might have been the wake-up call that Meslier needed ahead of next season.
A lot of fans have called for the goalkeeper to be sold in the summer transfer window, but giving him another chance in the squad might be the better option.
Leeds still need another goalkeeper
Even if Farke does opt to keep Meslier at Elland Road next season, there’s no doubt that the Yorkshire giants still need to recruit a new goalkeeper.
Meslier has settled into his role as the number two recently, and given his quality and Premier League experience, that’s a role he can continue in.
Meslier is someone who can be trusted to be rarely called upon if needed, with Farke not having to worry about his experience, while signing a new first-choice goalkeeper would provide the reassurance that a lot of fans are looking for.