Leeds United could be making a big move this January as reports suggest the 49ers Enterprises, the club’s owners, are ready to approve the sale of goalkeeper Illan Meslier.
The Frenchman has faced growing criticism after a poor performance against Hull City, where Leeds surrendered a two-goal lead to draw 3-3.
Illan has remained a core player for Leeds during this season, making a total of 26 appearances and keeping 14 clean sheets.
Despite his previously impressive performances, his recent match errors do commence speculation about his position at Elland Road in the future.
Big Clubs Eyeing Meslier
Meslier has certainly turned the heads of a few top clubs. French side Rennes are said to be interested and place a worth of £15 million on the goalkeeper.
Premier League giants Arsenal and Manchester United have also been said to be placing surprise bids for him.
It looks to be the perfect time for Leeds to to take advantage, as Meslier is now within his final 18 months of his contract.
Nevertheless, selling a player of his caliber midseason is always difficult and Meslier has been a regular player for Leeds this season.
Regardless, former Leeds striker Jon Newsome spoke on this saying he shouldn’t be selling Meslier right now since the club may not be able to get close to what they want.
But the 49ers, it is reported, are willing to consider offers.
Who Will Replace Meslier?
Leeds fans are now curious about who is going to take Meslier’s place in goal if he departs.
The backup keeper, Karl Darlow, is expected to start against Harrogate in the FA Cup and if he performs well, he might be able to earn himself a starting position in subsequent matches.
The decision to sell Meslier could shake up Leeds’ season. His inconsistency in performance has at times cost the team, but his knowledge and shot stopping abilities in goal have certainly benefited the team so far.
It is only a matter of time whether the club is able to sign an appropriate candidate in January.
The combination of rumors from around some of the best clubs and questions on his current form makes Meslier’s stay at Leeds United quite questionable.
The fans will be carefully monitoring the situation as the January transfer window opens.
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