Gus Poyet has told Football League World that he thinks Illan Meslier will remain at Leeds United when the January transfer window arrives – with the French stopper surprisingly staying put in the summer.
Meslier, 23, was axed by Sam Allardyce for the final four Premier League games last term. Many felt that having lost his place and the club being relegated, Meslier would be sold. But, he has stayed at Leeds.
That is despite the signing of Karl Darlow from Newcastle United. Angus Kinnear even admitted that we had a bid north of £20m for Meslier. Spanish side Celta Vigo showed interest in the £5m Leeds signing.
But Meslier has stayed put and remained first choice this season. Playing all eight Championship games, the goalkeeper has been superb. He has kept four clean sheets, all coming in our last four matches.
“Leeds made a very strong decision in giving Meslier the opportunity to be the number one at Leeds and it is difficult for goalkeepers to move. I would like the decision on his future to be made by himself.
“Sometimes you get caught in the middle of a financial situation. Goalkeeper is a unique position. Many good enough to play but don’t get the opportunity. I can’t see him moving, I think he will stay at Leeds.”
Poyet: Meslier will remain at Leeds when January arrives
He has been superb this season. Four clean sheets sounds as if the Leeds defence has not been tested but Meslier has had to make a number of saves. He now has 134 appearances for Leeds under his belt.
A huge amount, for a goalkeeper of just 23. Meslier is starting to claw back the form that saw him linked with some of Europe’s biggest clubs after the first couple of Premier League season. He must be kept.
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