Illan Meslier could be in line to stay at Elland Road as Daniel Farke likes him
Leeds United goalkeeper Illan Meslier could be set to remain at Elland Road for the coming season, with Daniel Farke a fan of the player, according to journalist Graham Smyth.
Smyth shared via the Inside Elland Road podcast on 26 July that Meslier, who looked like leaving the club this summer, is yet to receive any offers to take him away from Elland Road.
With Karl Darlow set to arrive at Leeds from Newcastle, Meslier’s situation has further intrigue as there will be a battle for the number one spot at Elland Road, with both ‘keepers keen on that starting spot for the new season.
When speaking to the Inside Elland Road podcast, Smyth shared: “You’ve got an interesting situation, because you’ve got Meslier who we all thought ‘he’s gone’ this summer, but nobody has come in with an offer to change the situation.
“Farke likes him from what I’m told, so you could have a situation where it’s Meslier versus Darlow, or the final month of the transfer window will decide that actually, it [the starting goalkeeper] is Darlow.
“I don’t know who my money would be on [starting]. Meslier’s confidence had gone towards the end of last season, but I don’t believe it would take long for him to get his confidence back. Maybe it’s hardened him a little, maybe it’ll help him to grow and mature a bit more.”
An interesting development
Should Meslier stay at Elland Road, the club could be left with an interesting situation to deal with ahead of their Championship season. Both goalkeepers will back themselves to claim the number one shirt at Leeds, in what will be a tight battle.
It is still widely expected that Meslier will leave the club should interest in him emerge, with Chelsea one of the names circulated at the start of the transfer window as they look to replace the outgoing Edouard Mendy.
Darlow will have been given assurances by Leeds as to his position in the squad and will expect to be the club’s starting goalkeeper, which would have played a large part in the decision to join Leeds in the Championship rather than pursue a move to Premier League Bournemouth.
Ultimately at Leeds, strong competition for places is no bad thing. In a squad that is being ravaged by vultures following relegation, they will be glad to keep another face who has spent time in the Premier League with the club. Competition can lead to both players performing better when called upon.
In other Leeds United news, a German club are targeting a move for Leeds United defender.