Leeds United’s multi-million-pound howler set to come to fruition amid Illan Meslier exit news
Illan Meslier’s time at Leeds United could come to an end in days.
The winter transfer window closed a few days ago, and yet that remains one of the main talking points at Elland Road, and not for a good reason.
Leeds failed to make the most of the opportunities that presented themselves, leaving them perhaps short for the relegation battle that lies ahead.
However, with some of the foreign transfer windows still open, exits from Elland Road may occur, and should Meslier be one of them, it would expose a major error that the Whites have made.
Besikas want out-of-window deal for Illan Meslier
Leeds pushed hard for the signing of Jorgen Strand Larsen, but due to their reluctance to pay more than they wanted to, the Norwegian joined Crystal Palace.
However, that isn’t the biggest issue that Leeds are set to face in the second half of the campaign, as their goalkeeping situation is just as dire as it was last season.
Lucas Perri has been woeful this season, Karl Darlow hasn’t been much better, and Meslier, who has been heavily linked with a move to Besiktas, looks set to be moved on.
But with just six months left on his deal at Elland Road, Leeds will be lucky to get a fee even worth mentioning for his exit.
And when taking into account how high his stock was even last season, it showcased just how much of an error the Whites made by not selling him earlier.
Leeds were previously reported to have wanted around £40million for the Frenchman, and while that may have been unlikely, they could have easily pocketed a multi-million-pound fee at the very worst.
Leeds must take note of other Premier League models
Leeds are a huge club, but in the English footballing pyramid, they are just another fish in the sea waiting to be baited by one of Europe’s elites.
But that doesn’t have to be a bad thing if prepared correctly.
Clubs like Brighton, Brentford, and even Sunderland, to some extent, have showcased exactly what to do to progress.
Players will see their stocks rise, and when that happens, Leeds need to plan accordingly.
Very rarely have Leeds moved on one of their stronger players for a huge fee, but far too commonly have they rebuffed offers only to see that stock reduce significantly.
That was the case with Meslier, and it is something that needs to change if the Whites are to establish themselves as premier League club.