Promotion under Marcelo Bielsa saw a number of Leeds United stars shine in the top tier – and given it was such a young side under the Argentine, plenty attracted interest from Europe’s biggest clubs.
Indeed, Raphinha went to Barcelona. Kalvin Phillips joined Manchester City. Jack Harrison was linked to some of the Premier League’s bigger sides, while Illan Meslier was a name attracting plenty of interest.
Even last summer, Meslier was linked with Chelsea. More recently, loosely linked with Bayern Munich. But the interest in Meslier – touted as France’s future no.1 – has died off, coinciding as his form dipped.
Well, that form and confidence is returning. This season, 17 clean sheets in 38 games – conceding only 20 goals. Spanish outlet SPORT have done a report on him this morning, citing previous interest in him.
The report shares how Meslier has gone from being one of Europe’s most sought-after goalkeepers in the summer of 2021, to staying with Leeds in England’s second tier. But, that he is on his way back up.
Leeds man Illan Meslier attracting interest from European clubs
Indeed, the report also states how Real Madrid and Barcelona were once interested in him – with Meslier dubbed the next Thibaut Courtois. If he is to get there again, he will need to get Leeds promoted now.
Then, shine next season. There is no doubting that if Leeds do go up, Meslier will remain a key player come the 2024-25 season. But, failure to do so, and you can expect Meslier – among others – to leave.
Meslier currently sits top of the charts for clean sheets in the Championship and that form will need to continue if he is to help us get promoted, and once again, attract those big clubs ahead of the summer.
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