Illan Meslier looks likely to depart Leeds United this summer with just 12 months left on his contract at Elland Road.
Daniel Farke chose to drop Meslier for Karl Darlow at the matchday 39 stage, having refused to drop Meslier after Sunderland and Hull City errors.
At that point, his starting berth had become untenable. Simon Grayson backed Farke’s decision on Meslier against Luton Town, which was certainly vindicated with six wins in a row afterwards.
A number of people associated with Leeds thought the timing was right, with Phil Hay also believing Meslier’s time at Leeds is over after six seasons with the club.
Photo by MI News/NurPhoto via Getty ImagesIllan Meslier could yet stay at Leeds if conditions aren’t met
After his removal from the lineup, the Frenchman could have reacted badly but Patrick Bamford revealed Meslier’s response to being dropped was a positive enough one.
However, that Swansea City appearance could well be Meslier’s last for the club. Leeds are reportedly offering Meslier to other clubs and an exit appears likely.
Speaking exclusively to Leeds United News, our transfer expert Graeme Bailey explained the situation and why nothing is guaranteed.
He said: “It’s through intermediaries. They’ll be bringing offers to Leeds.
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“However, it doesn’t mean to say Leeds will take a huge loss in him and pay for him to go or anything like that. If it’s not a suitable offer, he’ll stay at Leeds.
“He’s still a highly thought of player and a good goalkeeper. They’re not going to give him away. They’re certainly not going to give him away for free.
“There will be options for him out there, but they’re not going to just give him away.”
Meslier was signed for £5 million and has signed a new contract previously, meaning his PSR book value is close to zero, and Leeds could therefore cash in easily.
Photo by Pat Scaasi | MI News/NurPhoto via Getty ImagesIllan Meslier’s Leeds 2024/25 stats paint a damning picture
There is still time for the 25-year-old to turn his career around. Eddie Gray has backed Meslier to become a ‘top’ goalkeeper one day as well. That won’t be with Leeds, though.
Illan Meslier’s key stats vs Championship goalkeepers
Leeds had a great defence to thank for their clean sheets and defensive record, with Meslier protected well by his back four and the defensive midfield duo for most of the campaign.
It could be argued Leeds kept clean sheets in spite of Meslier. The Whites faced just 99 shots on target and 304 shots overall in 2024/25 — both were the fewest of any team in the division.
A fresh start is needed for him this summer, given his confidence will be rock bottom. Leeds can retain Darlow as their second-choice but Meslier needs to begin a new chapter in his football career.