Illan Meslier vs Lucas Perri: How does Leeds star compare to likely replacement?
Lucas Perri looks set to become Leeds United’s seventh signing of the summer.
While it has taken longer than expected, Leeds finally look set to put an end to their goalkeeping concern, after it was revealed they had reached an agreement for the signing of Perri.
The Lyon goalkeeper is due to undergo a medical with the Whites, and could feature in one of the upcoming pre-season games.
However, having played in Ligur 1 and Brazil, fans may not be accustomed to his qualities, as MOT Leeds News takes a look at what he could bring to Elland Road next season.
Leeds have a massive upgrade on Illan Meslier
Illan Meslier provided several scares for the Whites last season, and it became apparent that he would have to be replaced ahead of their return to the Premier League. They seem to have done just that with Perri.
The Brazilian made 116 saves for Lyon last season, with a save percentage of 72.5 per cent [FotMob].
Perri prevented an impressive 6.05 goals in Ligue 1, which is in stark comparison to the -2.73 that was achieved by Meslier in the Championship.
| Stat | Perri | Meslier |
| Saves | 116 | 65 |
| Save percentage | 72.5% | 70.7% |
| Goals prevented | 6.05 | -2.73 |
| Errors leading to goal | 1 | 3 |
| Pass accuracy | 73.7% | 76.9% |
That alone serves as a showcase of how many more points Perri could earn the Whites, with just one error leading to a goal, compared to Meslier’s three.
Meslier boasts a slightly higher pass accuracy at 76.9 per cent, but a significantly lower long ball accuracy, with Perri winning that accolade with a 36 per cent completion rate.
Overall, Perri seems to have the advantage over the Frenchman, and with a few extra years of experience, that will also be of use for Leeds.
Leeds must turn attention to attacking signings
Leeds are still in need of a striker, and that is a non-negotiable ahead of their return to the Premier League.
Rodrigo Muniz seems to be their ideal target, though very little progress seems to have been made on that deal, despite the importance.
In less than a month, Leeds will start the season, amplifying the need for those plans to be accelerated.
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