‘Don’t rule it out’: Leeds could make late signing to solve problem position

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Leeds United could make a late move to sign an experienced goalkeeper, a position Jesse Marsch is keen to fill with Kiko Casilla set to leave the club for good this summer.

According to Leeds Live journalist Beren Cross, a senior backup to Illan Meslier is currently not a priority for Leeds, but the role is expected to be resolved at some point later in the window, with the reporter stating when asked about the Whites signing an experienced goalkeeper: “Don’t rule it out before the end of the window, but it’s not currently a priority.”

As per the report, Casilla’s future is expected to be resolved in the final month of the summer, with Leeds eager to offload the 35-year-old goalkeeper after spending last season out on loan with Elche, though interest has been minimal in the former Real Madrid shot-stopper.

With Kristoffer Klaesson set to remain with the U-21s and act as a third-choice goalkeeper, it makes sense why Leeds are not in a rush to sign a new goalkeeper this summer, with the Yorkshire side being linked to the likes of Ben Foster, who is currently a free agent after being released by Watford.

Klaesson alone would be a good option as a backup for Meslier, with the Norweigian youngster regarded as one of Europe’s top goalkeeping prospects and a player who could develop into an outstanding shot-stopper if given the chance to play regular first-team football.

However, the plan for Klaesson, as of now, is to remain with the U-21s, with the Oslo-born talent not quite ready yet for a loan move to a top European side in a big division, with Leeds set on signing an experienced goalkeeper to act as deputy for Meslier next season.

Signing a backup goalkeeper for Meslier should be resolved soon by Leeds

Backup goalkeepers hold an odd yet important role in football, and with Leeds having the youngster starting keeper in the Premier League in Meslier, signing a reserve option for the France youngster will be important for the 22-year-old’s development.

Indeed, competition on the training ground will only push Meslier to perform better in matches, and signing a player like Foster could be an outstanding piece of business from Leeds given the quality and experience the former England international can offer a superstar talent like the Whites no. 1.