Meslier exit: Leeds United star to pack bags after new developments at Elland Rd
Leeds United supporters are growing impatient after watching Illan Meslier make another mistake in between the sticks.
While the Frenchman cannot be solely to blame for Leeds’ collapse in the 3-3 draw against Hull City on Saturday (4 January), all three points would have been secured at the MKM Stadium without his blunder.
Holding a 3-1 lead going into the final 10 minutes, goals from Joao Pedro and Abu Kamara meant the points were split and the Whites could only hold a one-point gap at the top of the Championship table.
Transfer speculation would certainly not have helped his mind, with Manchester United reportedly interested in the shot-stopper [Alan Nixon], but it is likely down to his lack of confidence on the pitch.
Now, Leeds’ upcoming FA Cup fixture against Harrogate Town on Saturday 11 January would give him the perfect chance to right his wrongs and, likely, keep a clean sheet against their League Two opponents.
However, the Frenchman might not be given that chance after his recent blunders, with Daniel Farke set to make changes ahead of the tie.
Illan Meslier done at Leeds United?
According to TEAMtalk, Farke looks set to axe Meslier from his starting XI as Leeds prepare to face Harrogate in the FA Cup, with Karl Darlow likely to replace him.
With the 24-year-old’s future up in the air and the January transfer window now in full swing, he may have played his final game for the Whites if a move is sanctioned before their next league clash.
That means Darlow may keep his spot in the lineup for the home game against Sheffield Wednesday on Sunday 19 January, much to the relief of many of the frustrated fans.
While the Welshman has been waiting for his chance at Elland Road, his time in the starting XI might not last too long as Leeds are targeting a deal to sign River Plate’s Conan Ledesma [Fichajes].
It is unclear whether signing the 31-year-old would dislodge Darlow, but it almost certainly suggests that Meslier is in his final few weeks in Yorkshire. He might need to start packing his bags now.
In other Leeds United news, the Whites are unlikely to offer a new deal to a player who “got found out” in the Premier League.
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