Newcastle and Tottenham target Illan Meslier has been criticised by Jamie Carragher live on Sky Sports.
What’s the story?
Well – according to Phil Hay of The Athletic back in January – Tottenham want to sign the Leeds No.1 as they attempt to replace Hugo Lloris.
Elsewhere, it was RMC Sport in France who claimed that Newcastle want to sign Meslier.
The France Under-21 international has made a name for himself at Leeds since joining in a £5m deal from Lorient back in 2020, racking up 103 Premier League appearances.
Meslier – aged 23 – became the youngest goalkeeper ever to make 100 Premier League appearances when he hit the landmark in a 4-2 win over Wolves on Saturday 18th March.
However, things have turned sour in recent weeks, with the Lorient-born glovesman conceding five against Crystal Palace at Elland Road on Easter Sunday, before letting six in against Liverpool on Monday night.
After watching Meslier ship six to Liverpool, Carragher questioned his ability.
Speaking on Sky Sports Monday Night Football, the 45-year-old said: “They’ve got really poor defenders. Really poor. I’ve never been convinced with the goalkeeper… he’s got no presence. It looks like they’ve got a kid in goal. I’ve always felt that.”
Meslier has now conceded 60 goals in his 31 Premier League appearances this season – more than any other goalkeeper – while also keeping just five clean sheets.
Newcastle & Tottenham may be having second thoughts about Meslier
Make no mistake about it, Meslier is one of the most precocious goalkeeping talents in Europe – very few glovesmen in history have amassed his experience at the age of 23.
However, the Frenchman is undoubtedly going through a tough spell this season. As a result, Newcastle and Tottenham may be reconsidering their stance.
In our view, the Magpies and Spurs may opt to wait a few years until Meslier fulfils some more of his potential, and starts to look more imposing in between the sticks.
Having said that, relegation for Leeds could present the opportunity of a bargain.
If Leeds do end up dropping into the Championship, keep a close eye on Meslier’s situation.
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