The Athletic claim Manchester United are weighing up a move for Leeds United goalkeeper Illan Meslier, as they feel the Frenchman is he ideal long-term replacement for David De Gea between the sticks.
Despite still only being 22, Meslier has clocked up 89 appearances for Leeds and has played 119 times at senior level. During his Leeds stint, he has kept 25 clean sheets and conceded 140 times – largely due to Marcelo Bielsa’s system.
Indeed, Manchester United see past that – and the fact they have scored 15 goals in four games against Leeds, with Meslier in goal. The report claims they see the France Under-21 man as a long-term replacement for De Gea.
De Gea, 31, is in the final 12 months of his contract. While they could extend said deal, they will also be drawing up potential replacements. Meslier, branded “phenomenal” by ex-Leeds goalkeeper Rob Green, is a target for United.
Manchester United weighing up Leeds goalkeeper Meslier
Meslier would never be forgiven if he did join Manchester United. Although it is a slightly different scenario to that of Kalvin Phillips. Manchester United were regularly linked with Phillips, but he chose to join Manchester City.
Speaking after his move to City, Phillips said there was “never any chance” due to the rivalry between the two sides. Phillips is Leeds through and through. For Meslier, he only joined the club in 2019 from Lorient.
So, while he is a fan favourite at Leeds and nicknamed the ‘Ice Man’, there is less preventing him from swapping Leeds for United. How much would he cost? It is unclear, but Leeds would be making a huge profit, after their £5m outlay.
They will be able to charge whatever they like, with Meslier’s contract boasting another four years on it – until 2026. Whether the lure of Manchester United will prove tempting is unclear, as things stand.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
