Victor Orta is reportedly a target for Chelsea after his excellent work as Leeds United’s director of football – but could it see the London club reignite a move for Leeds talent Illan Meslier, after he rejected Chelsea while at Lorient in 2018?
Reports say Chelsea have identified Leeds chief Orta, and Bayer Leverkusen’s Tim Steidten as options. Todd Boehly’s Football Manager-style approach to transfers earned criticism. He wants someone to take control of his activity.
It comes after Chelsea’s move for Salzburg figure Christoph Freund was rejected. Orta has impressed as Leeds chief, making signings such as Meslier for just £5million. Raphinha for only £17million. Of course, Marcelo Bielsa’s arrival, too.
Orta brings with him a wealth of experience – working for Middlesbrough, Zenit, Sevilla and more. Now, Leeds are in danger of losing their transfer chief. But could such a move see Chelsea reignite a move from way back in 2018?
Orta could reignite Chelsea move for Meslier, if he leaves Leeds
Speaking to Goal in 2021, Meslier admitted that he was tempted by a move to Chelsea in 2018 from Lorient. However, given it was too late in the window and Chelsea’s numerous options between the sticks – he turned the move down.
Those options, though, are under pressure. Kepa Arrizabalaga has not lived up to the price tag. Edouard Mendy has made some shocking mistakes of late – including one howler in a 3-0 loss to Meslier’s Leeds at Elland Road in August.
Gabriel Slonina has been signed, but he is still only 18. Meslier, although only 22 himself, is only five appearances shy of a century with Leeds. He has 125 club appearances to his name, and nine caps with France’s Under-21 side.
With Mendy struggling, Kepa likely to go and Slonina yet to prove himself, Chelsea could do with a goalkeeper. If Orta does join, then there is every chance he could reignite Chelsea’s 2018 bid to sign £25million-rated Meslier.
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