Leeds now set to sell Illan Meslier as deal agreed
Illan Meslier’s future at Leeds United has been uncertain for several months now.
The Frenchman was axed from the starting XI by Daniel Farke in the latter stages of their Championship promotion campaign last time out, and it has been unclear whether there will be any way back for him.
Leeds have been exploring possible options to play between the posts for several months now, as Meslier’s inconsistency is a major concern.
Daniel Farke will know that he needs a reliable goalkeeper at his disposal if his side are to have any chance of consolidating their spot in the Premier League.
Meslier is expected to depart after Leeds sign Lucas Perri
Leeds have been chasing the signing of Lucas Perri from Lyon for several weeks now, and they finally got their move for the Brazilian over the line on Saturday (26 July).
The gloveman kept 10 clean sheets for the French giants last term, and will now likely become the new first-choice ‘keeper at Elland Road.
With that in mind, the West Yorkshire outfit’s stance on Meslier has become even more apparent than it has been previously.
The 25-year-old is now expected to move on to a new club if an offer comes in over the next few weeks, according to the Daily Mail (27 July).
The out-of-favour star is understood to have trained and performed well throughout pre-season, but it seems as though Perri’s arrival has now finally sealed his fate with the Whites.
Leeds have made the right decision on Meslier
Leeds’ decision to show Meslier towards the exit will not have been an easy one, given that he has spent six seasons at Elland Road.
He is a capable ‘keeper on his day, and has caught the eye with impressive saves on several occasions.
| Meslier | Perri | |
| Apps | 39 | 33 |
| Clean Sheets | 21 | 10 |
| Goals Conceded | 27 | 44 |
However, he simply doesn’t have the required level of consistency to be part of a side that survives relegation in the Premier League.
Leeds are set for a season where every single point will matter, and they cannot go into it with a ‘keeper who the manager does not have full confidence in.
Perri’s arrival should be exactly what is needed to help take the Whites to the next level, and it may be a little harsh on Meslier, but Farke and Co. have little room to make sentimental calls this season.
Trying to move Meslier on is certainly the right decision, and they will now be hoping that a suitable offer is presented over the next few weeks.
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