Leeds United goalkeeper Illan Meslier is attracting serious attention from Belgium, with both Club Brugge and Anderlecht making moves to sign him in the upcoming January transfer window, according to a new report from Voetbal Krant.
The 25-year-old Frenchman appears to be nearing the end of his time at Elland Road, having fallen completely out of favour under Daniel Farke this season.
Two Belgian clubs contact Leeds United over Meslier
Reports earlier this week suggested Anderlecht were attempting to structure a creative financial package to sign Meslier. Now, Voetbal Krant confirm that both Anderlecht and Club Brugge have “made approaches” for the player.
It is not specified whether those approaches were made directly to Leeds United or to Meslier’s representatives, but both clubs are said to have expressed “clear interest” in securing the deal.
Meslier, once regarded as one of Europe’s most promising young goalkeepers, has yet to make a single appearance for Leeds this season.
With Karl Darlow and Lucas Perri preferred in goal, Meslier’s situation has become untenable — especially with his contract expiring in June 2026. Leeds are understood to be open to offers that could prevent them from losing him for free next summer.
Financial hurdles for Anderlecht and Club Brugge
While both Belgian sides are keen, the deal is described as “not an easy proposition.”
Meslier’s £40,000-per-week wages are considered extremely high by Jupiler Pro League standards, meaning any potential transfer would need to be creatively structured. That could involve signing-on bonuses, appearance-based incentives, or a heavily reduced base salary to make the move viable.
Standard Liège explored a move for the French goalkeeper last summer but ultimately walked away due to the cost. Club Brugge and Anderlecht are facing the same challenge, though both clubs are reportedly determined to push negotiations forward.
| Stat (2025/26) | Illan Meslier |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 0 |
| Clean Sheets | 0 |
| Saves per 90 (2024/25) | 3.2 |
| Pass Accuracy | 84% |
source: Sofascore match data – 27 October 2025
Meslier’s lack of game time this season has seen his market value decline significantly — something Belgian clubs hope to exploit. With Leeds unwilling to guarantee him minutes, a cut-price January exit could suit all parties.
Our View
Illan Meslier’s situation at Leeds United has become unsustainable. Once a cornerstone of Marcelo Bielsa’s high-tempo system, his confidence and form have dipped over the past two seasons.
A move abroad could reignite his career, and Belgium — a league that has recently proven fertile ground for player revivals — might provide the perfect reset.
However, his wage demands will remain a major obstacle unless he’s willing to take a substantial pay cut or Leeds agree to subsidise part of his salary.
Key Insights
- Club Brugge and Anderlecht have both made contact about signing Meslier in January.
- The Frenchman is yet to feature for Leeds this season.
- Leeds could sanction a cut-price exit to avoid losing him on a free next summer.
- Meslier earns £300,000 per week, making a Belgian move financially complicated.
- Both clubs are exploring creative payment structures to make the deal possible.
What’s Next
Leeds United face Brighton in the Premier League this weekend, but Meslier is not expected to be in the matchday squad once again.
If negotiations progress, the goalkeeper could be one of the first major transfer stories of the January 2026 window.
👉 Will Illan Meslier’s Leeds United exile finally end with a move to Belgium?
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