Insider shares Illan Meslier ‘problem’ at Leeds United

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Illan Meslier finds himself back in the spotlight at Leeds amid a period of uncertainty.

The 25-year-old has slipped behind both Lucas Perri and Karl Darlow in the pecking order under Daniel Farke, following a difficult 2024/25 campaign which was riddled with costly mistakes.

Reports in Belgian state that both Anderlecht and Club Brugge want to sign Meslier – who sees his contract expire in July.

Leeds United News have now been informed by Graeme Bailey – Chief Correspondent – about a “problem” involving Illan Meslier.

Sources: Illan Meslier could choose to stay and leave as a free agent

Leeds have one final chance to recoup a fee for the Frenchman this winter before his terms expire in July, although the goalkeeper himself could opt to see out his contract and leave for nothing.

Bailey said: “That’s the problem now though. It’s up to the player. He’s on decent money. Remember, he got a contract off Leeds when he was at his best.”

Meslier signed his current deal back in August 2021 when he was thriving under Marcelo Bielsa, even breaking Joe Hart’s record by keeping eight clean sheets in the Premier League before turning 21.

It is believed to be worth £30,000-a-week, according to Capology.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin figures show why Illan Meslier might choose to stay until July

There is financial incentive for Meslier – one of three survivors from the last Leeds XI to face Brighton – to become a free agent in July rather than push for a January exit.

Players signed on free transfers typically receive an inflated salary due to the absence of a transfer fee.

That is why Dominic Calvert-Lewin currently makes £100,000-a-week at Leeds following his arrival on a free transfer, having run down his contract with Everton.

It all depends on how desperate Meslier is to get back on the pitch, with a winter move making sense from a sporting viewpoint, but not exactly a financial one for the man born in Lorient.