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Carlo Ancelotti hints at goalkeeper signing amid reports Real Madrid want Illan Meslier

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Carlo Ancelotti has hinted that Real Madrid could enter the transfer window to sign a new goalkeeper after Thibaut Courtois was ruled out with an ACL injury – amid reports that the La Liga giants could sign Leeds star Illan Meslier.

Courtois, 31, suffered the issue on Thursday morning and is expected to undergo surgery – which is likely to keep him out of action for the next six or seven months. It leaves Ukraine star Andriy Lunin as the club’s first-choice man.

ESPN report that Madrid are expected to bring in a new signing and have contacted David De Gea, who remains a free agent after his Manchester United contract came to an end. Spanish outlet SPORT say Meslier is also a target.

Asked if Madrid are going to sign a new goalkeeper before the end of the window, to replace Courtois – Ancelotti told reporters that if the numbers are right, then Madrid could move. But, he also has faith in goalkeeper Lunin.

Leeds United v Cardiff City - Sky Bet Championship
Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images

“I’m very calm,” Ancelotti said, as per The Athletic. “We have to think (if we want to sign another goalkeeper). After Lunin we have young players like Canizares or Fran (Gonzalez). If we sign another, we will look at the number.”

Ancelotti hints Real Madrid could sign goalkeeper amid Meslier reports

Leeds will be very keen to do a deal for Meslier. Having signed Karl Darlow, Leeds need to get rid of Meslier in order to bring in some cash. Darlow will not have left Newcastle to be back-up goalkeeper – he could start on Saturday.

Meslier has been pinpointed as a player that could be sold, alongside the likes of Jack Harrison, Willy Gnonto and Tyler Adams. But with a replacement already sorted, selling Meslier makes sense. Madrid may now take advantage.