Leeds United dealt transfer blow as ‘excellent’ replacement identifed for Illan Meslier signs new contract

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Leeds United will be in the market for a new goalkeeper this summer. Illan Meslier’s time at Elland Road is as good as over, after he was dropped by Daniel Farke for the last seven matches.

It has been six years since Victor Orta struck a loan-to-buy deal with French side Lorient for Illan Meslier. Initially joining in 2019 as back-up to Kiko Casilla, Meslier has gone on to clock up 214 Leeds outings.

But his mistakes during 2024-25 saw Farke left with no choice but to drop him for Karl Darlow, and the Welshman’s introduction to the starting line-up coincided with Leeds winning their last six matches.

A crucial moment in the Championship run-in that proved to be the right call by Farke. But it now means that Meslier’s future is under the microscope, and Phil Hay thinks Meslier is now “done” at Leeds.

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Illan Meslier replacement signs new contract at current club

This summer, Leeds will be in the market to replace Meslier not only as the club’s no.1 – but also because the chances are, Meslier will be sold. Leeds can still make a profit on Meslier, who was bought for £5m.

Leeds will look for a new no.1 and the likelihood is that Darlow reverts to being second choice. Finn Dahmen has been identified as a possible signing for Leeds, after a stellar season with Augsburg.

Playing 19 times for Augsburg this season, Dahmen has kept nine clean sheets and conceded only 15 goals. He is regarded as one of the best goalkeepers in German football outside of the top-four.

Leeds were in the market for Dahmen but their hopes have been seriously dented after Augsburg annoucned over the weekend that Augsburg have triggered an extension for Dahmen, until 2027.

Finn Dahmen stats compared to Meslier and ‘excellent’ verdict

Clearly, Augsburg were aware of interest from Leeds and other clubs in Dahmen and have chosen to act quickly. The contract extension means interest will lessen, given Augsburg can now charge full price.

Dahmen’s previous deal was due to expire in June 2026, meaning he was about to enter the final year of his contract. Augsburg would have had to sell if they wanted a decent fee for the stopper, this summer.

League form compared in 24-25 (Meslier in Championship, Dahmen in Bundesliga):

That is no longer the case. Leeds’ interest may remain but if they are to buy Dahmen, he will now be a lot more expensive than he was a week ago. His stats this season will mean Augsburg can charge a big fee.

Described as “excellent” by manager Jess Thorup, Dahmen will certainly be a target for a few clubs this summer. But it all depends on the price tag with Leeds likely to be considering a number of options.