Leeds United goalkeeper Illan Meslier has been linked with a summer move away from Elland Road, with Chelsea keen on signing him.
Illan Meslier has been a key player for Leeds United since joining them. But the Whites have now been relegated to the Championship, and the Frenchman could look to move on in search of top-flight football. In an interview by RMC Sport, the 23-year-old has responded to links with Chelsea. And he would be open to joining them if he gets game-time assurances.
Meslier has confirmed that he does not wish to be a second-choice keeper at any club, and he would only join Chelsea if they are willing to offer him the starting spot. It will be interesting to see if Chelsea are ready to give him the assurances he needs.
The 23-year-old said, “If it is to go and be on the bench, I’m not interested in that. If it’s to be the number one, of course, you can’t say ‘I’m not interested in Chelsea.’ I’d prefer to go to a less reputable club where I’ll have more game time than a top European club where I’d sit on the bench.”
Meslier has been a reliable performer in the Premier League for Leeds United, and he has the potential to develop into a top-class goalkeeper. The 23-year-old is still quite young and is likely to improve with coaching and experience.
Meslier: “Officially, I still belong to LUFC. I will have to think about what could be the best project”, told RMC ⚪️
“Chelsea? If it is to go and be on the bench… I’m not interested in that. If it’s to be the number one, of course, you can’t say I’m not interested in Chelsea”. pic.twitter.com/DSeeqCmsRd
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 11, 2023
Edouard Mendy has fallen down the pecking order at Stamford Bridge, and he struggled for regular game time this past season. The 23-year-old Frenchman could be his ideal replacement at Chelsea next term.
Meanwhile, Chelsea recently appointed Mauricio Pochettino as their new manager, and the Argentine has a proven track record of nurturing talented young players and helping them establish themselves as first-team stars. Meslier will fancy his chances of fulfilling his potential under Pochettino.
The Leeds United goalkeeper has been linked with other Premier League clubs in recent months as well. But it remains to be seen where he ends up eventually. Whoever ends up signing him will have a tremendous future prospect on their hands.
Also Read: Mauricio Pochettino: What can Chelsea fans expect from their new manager?
The opportunity to play for a big club like Chelsea will be an attractive option for the French goalkeeper, and he will feel that he can compete for major trophies with them next season. The Blues have had a disappointing season. But they have a quality squad and a top-class manager at their disposal now. With the resources they have, they should be able to compete for the titles once again.
Can guarantee you if he goes to Chelsea, Poch will give him the KP treatment that Pep gave at City.