Illan Meslier looks set to leave Leeds United this summer, with the club open to offers in the region of £5 million. Serie A side Como have shown interest in the 24-year-old as a backup option, while Paris Saint-Germain are also monitoring the situation for a similar role.
Leeds’ strategy this window is clear — trim the wage bill and restructure the squad under Daniel Farke. Meslier, once linked with Premier League giants for fees north of £40m, is now one of several departures expected before the deadline. The arrival of Lucas Perri has effectively confirmed the Frenchman’s place as second choice, making an exit almost inevitable.
Has Meslier’s stock fallen too far, too fast?
Why Leeds Are Letting Meslier Go
The club’s focus is on financial efficiency. Meslier’s form has dipped in the past two years, and with Perri signed to take the No.1 shirt, Leeds see the sale as a chance to recoup funds and cut salary obligations.
The situation also reflects a wider reality for goalkeepers: market value can swing dramatically based on form and circumstances. For Meslier, the days of £40m transfer links to top-six clubs are now a distant memory.
Manager’s Stance
While Daniel Farke hasn’t directly addressed Meslier’s future in public, his backing of Perri as first choice speaks volumes. Leeds’ transfer business points toward a full commitment to the Brazilian, signalling that Meslier’s opportunities would be minimal if he stayed.
“Lucas has the quality, the presence, and the mentality we need as our first-choice goalkeeper. It’s important to have clarity in that position, and we have it now.” — Daniel Farke
With that endorsement for Perri, Meslier’s next move is a matter of ‘when’, not ‘if’.
Illan Meslier — 2024/25 Season Stats
| Stat (2024/25) | Illan Meslier |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 41 |
| Clean Sheets | 13 |
| Goals Conceded | 52 |
| Save Percentage | 68% |
Meslier was ever-present for Leeds last season, producing 13 clean sheets but conceding 52 goals in all competitions. His save percentage of 68% reflects a campaign of mixed performances.
Analyst Verdict
Meslier’s decline in valuation is a sharp reminder of how quickly football fortunes change. From being tipped as one of Europe’s most promising young goalkeepers, he’s now on the verge of a £5m exit to serve as backup elsewhere.
From reviewing his recent matches, his shot-stopping remains solid, but lapses in decision-making and command of his area have cost him dearly. A fresh start in Serie A or Ligue 1 could be the reset his career needs.
Key Insights
- Leeds prepared to sell Meslier for £5m before the window closes.
- Como and PSG both interested as backup options.
- Market value has plummeted from £40m to £5m in two years.
- Lucas Perri arrival confirms Meslier’s backup status.
- Departure would ease Leeds’ wage bill and aid restructuring.
What’s Next
Talks are expected to progress in the coming days, with Como pushing to secure a deal quickly to bolster their squad depth. PSG remain a wildcard, potentially offering the player a return to France in a high-profile environment, albeit without guaranteed minutes.
For Leeds, the priority is to finalise departures swiftly, ensuring the wage bill is under control while allowing Farke to focus on building a squad capable of challenging to stay in the Premier League.
Should Meslier take the Como move for game time — or join PSG and accept a backup role at one of Europe’s biggest clubs?
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