Erik ten Hag reportedly wants to bring Illan Meslier to Manchester United to add competition for David de Gea.
According to The Athletic, Manchester United are keen on signing Illan Meslier as Erik ten Hag wants a new goalkeeper to add competition in the position currently held by David De Gea.
David de Gea continues to blow hot and cold as the first-choice goalkeeper at Manchester United, as he put up a timid display against Brighton & Hove Albion on the opening weekend. The Spanish shot-stopper has come under intense scrutiny following unconvincing displays last term, with many calling for a change.
Dean Henderson was long earmarked to replace the Spaniard at some stage, but his career at Old Trafford is spiralling out of control. The English goalkeeper recently joined Nottingham Forest on loan to get regular game time. Following his exit from Manchester United, some of his comments regarding ‘broken promises’ may not have gone too well with the club’s hierarchy.
Whether he has a long-term future at Manchester United remains to be seen, but for now, there is a gap for Erik ten Hag to fill following Henderson’s exit. Following their opening day defeat to Brighton, the Manchester United manager has questions regarding the goalkeeping spot, which he may look to address before the window shuts.
Leeds United ace Illan Meslier is earmarked to solve this problem. Manchester United could explore bringing the French goalkeeper to Old Trafford in this window, but there are always issues when the Red Devils try to sign a player from the Whites, although much will depend on the transfer value.
Leeds have already signed Joel Robles from Real Betis on a free transfer and could ponder a sale for Meslier if the price is right. The club have shown their strong stance when it comes to player sales, and hence there is a feeling Meslier could carry a huge price tag.
The French goalkeeping ace has a contract until 2026, which puts Leeds in a strong position to negotiate a big fee with Manchester United. Meslier would certainly become a viable competitor for de Gea, considering the Spaniard’s fluctuating form in the current state.
Erik ten Hag does not have much faith in Tom Heaton, who got promoted to the No.2 spot after Henderson’s departure. As things stand, Manchester United are considering acquiring Meslier, and it will be interesting to see whether they make a formal approach in the coming days.
