Meslier ‘already has Championship exit route from Leeds’ after £30m development
Illan Meslier could potentially remain in the Championship once the upcoming transfer window opens after losing his place at Leeds United.
The French goalkeeper has dropped down the pecking order under Daniel Farke, with Karl Darlow replacing him in between the sticks as the Whites hope to win promotion.
After beating Oxford United 1-0 at the Kassam Stadium on Friday (18 April), the West Yorkshire outfit are five points ahead of third-place Sheffield United, and look favourites to win automatic promotion.
It wouldn’t be surprising to see Meslier leave Elland Road next summer as he looks for regular game time elsewhere, and continuing in the Championship may be an option for him.
Leeds United to sanction Meslier transfer at Elland Road
Farke’s team’s are on course to return to the Premier League, and they’ll arguably need a better shot-stopper to keep them there.
While 49ers Enterprises will be expected to support the German manager in the upcoming transfer window and bolster most areas of the pitch, the goalkeeping situation should be a priority.
| Competition (2024/25) | Appearances | Goals conceded | Clean sheets |
| Championship | 39 | 27 | 21 |
Darlow has been a loyal servant at the Whites and has deputised admirably in recent matches, but they’ll evidently need someone better than him in the English top flight.
It appears that Meslier is no longer trusted at the West Yorkshire outfit, and his reintroduction in the starting lineup seems unlikely, making a transfer sensible for both parties.
Leicester City transfer on cards for Meslier after Farke snub
Darlow will be expected to start against Stoke City at home again on Monday (21 April), and a win will secure their promotion if Sheffield United drop points.
Meslier’s performances have warranted his exile from Farke’s plans, and the Elland Road faithful will arguably not want to see him return to the team.
The 25-year-old shot-stopper has cost the Whites some valuable points this season after making several errors in recent months.
With the former Lorient keeper’s future up in the air at Leeds, Leicester City have emerged as a potential destination for him, according to TEAMtalk.
The news outlet reports (18 April) that the Foxes could consider signing Meslier in the upcoming transfer window if they lose Mads Hermansen.
It’s been claimed that the 24-year-old Danish shot-stopper is attracting interest from elsewhere, and the East Midlands outfit might consider selling him if an offer over £30million arrives.
Meslier undoubtedly needs a fresh challenge after failing to fulfil his potential at Elland Road, and remaining in the Championship may be best for him.
Leicester are on the verge of being relegated from the Premier League as they sit 17 points off safety.
Whether the 25-year-old French shot-stopper will end up at the King Power Stadium in the coming months remains to be seen.