According to Telegraph, Leeds United are determined to sign Illan Meslier permanently, should they qualify for the Premier League next season. Manager Marcelo Bielsa wants the Frenchman to be a part of the club, having impressed in the past few matches. The Lorient goalkeeper is set to cost around £5 million, with the French outfit unlikely to keep hold of his services.
In this article, we will talk about three reasons why Meslier could make a breakthrough in the upcoming season.
The futility of Kiko Casilla
Despite their tremendous defensive efforts in the Championship, this season, Leeds United have lacked the presence of a reliable goalkeeper. First-choice option Kiko Casilla, in that regard, is definitely a culprit.
The Spaniard has made a plethora of errors throughout the campaign. His failure to instil confidence and security between the sticks has proven to be detrimental to the club. And it was evident when the ex-Real Madrid star put in a horrendous performance against Derby County last season that eventually cost the Whites, a potential promotion to the top-flight.
Indeed, Casilla is certainly not the ideal player to utilise in that sweeper role. Despite all his experience, the 33-year-old often panics under tense situations and makes questionable decisions. He, therefore, cannot be trusted as a first-choice ‘keeper in the Premier League, thus paving the way for Meslier to make a breakthrough next season.
Competition in the market
Even if Leeds United look for other, more experienced options in their bid to replace Casilla, the Whites are likely to face a difficult time finding a reliable choice. Joe Hart has been one of the names linked with a move to Elland Road. But, the Englishman is evidently on a decline, even though he might still be a better option than his Spanish counterpart.
A decent option would be Fraser Forster of Southampton. However, the Championship league leaders would face stiff competition from Celtic in the pursuit of the 32-year-old, who has enjoyed a revival following his return to Scotland. It is combined with the financial crisis inflicted by the Coronavirus all over Europe that could really force the Whites to rely on Meslier instead.
Illan Meslier: One of the most promising ‘keepers in Europe
While external matters will undoubtedly play a key role in Meslier’s potential breakthrough, it is fair to point out that the Frenchman is considered as one of the most promising young goalkeepers in Europe.
Lack of experience at the highest level of football won’t favour Meslier in his bid to become Leeds United’s first-choice ‘keeper next season. However, in recent years, the Premier League managers have embraced young goalkeepers, with Sheffield United’s Dean Henderson being the prime example.
Meslier, in that regard, could potentially follow the footsteps of the young English star. He has already impressed the onlookers with his performances against Arsenal, Hull City and Huddersfield. Moreover, with Casilla facing an eight-match ban, it definitely won’t be surprising to see the Frenchman emerge as one of Premier League’s rising stars.
