Leeds United are willing to sell Illan Meslier for £30 million as Manchester United and Chelsea could seek the French Under-21 international.
According to Football Insider, Manchester United and Chelsea must pay £30 million to sign Illan Meslier. Leeds United were hopeful of a higher fee. But the 23-year-old goalkeeper’s terrible form towards the end of the season may have reduced his price tag.
The Illan Meslier transfer talk has been quiet since the season ended. The 23-year-old goalkeeper was in high demand throughout the season. But his late-season form has ensured interest from many formidable suitors cooled down.
In terms of quality, he remains a top-class keeper but was dropped for Leeds United’s last four games of their season. The Whites eventually suffered relegation from the Premier League. And the 23-year-old goalkeeper remains one of those primed to depart Elland Road for a top club.
Tottenham were one of the early suitors to angle a move for Meslier. However, they have since pivoted their search towards David Raya and eventually signed Italian keeper Guglielmo Vicario from Empoli in a £15-16 million deal.
Tottenham, Chelsea, and Manchester United were already notified of Meslier’s price, as Leeds demanded at least £30 million for the stopper. While Spurs have moved on, the other two are still hunting for a new keeper, which could bring their attention towards the 23-year-old.
Manchester United and David de Gea could part ways as the Spaniard is yet to agree on a new contract. The Red Devils are keen on Andre Onana. But the Inter Milan star would cost a staggering fee of over £50 million.
Similarly, Chelsea are in the market for a new keeper and have already bowed out of the race for Onana. The Blues can retain Kepa Arrizabalaga as their No.1. But ideally, they might prefer a new custodian to lead the charge next season.
For £30 million, Meslier seems like a cheaper alternative to Manchester United and Chelsea’s recent targets. He also has tremendous experience in the Premier League and England, particularly in making the grade at these top clubs.
Ideally, these clubs would re-negotiate the price with Leeds, who may look to sell several other of their players to raise funds. Meslier is a decent option to build the position with. But there are questions about him as a ball-playing keeper.
