Selling Illan Meslier would help Leeds United in terms of PSR on deadline day, and Graham Smyth has provided the latest on the situation.
Despite the need for one or two more incomings at Leeds United, it’s fair to say that players leaving Leeds for cash has been a priority more recently, given that PSR constraints are likely to be felt more.
It’s been said since Lucas Perri’s arrival that Leeds are now open to selling Meslier, given that Meslier is now third-choice Leeds goalkeeper. Therefore, he has to be in line for a move before the deadline.
In so many ways, the writing is very much on the wall, with Meslier stripped of his Leeds shirt number for the start of the season. Perri was handed the No.1 shirt metaphorically and figuratively.
Illan Meslier update from Graham Smyth amid Lorient interest
It has been revealed that Leeds are said to be offering Meslier around for around £5-6 million in Europe. Then, it came out that PSG and Como have considered Meslier as a back-up goalkeeper.
Carlos Corberan and Valencia are said to have an interest in Meslier — alongside Rangers as well. However, the most concrete has come from his former club, with Lorient wanting to re-sign Meslier after selling to Leeds in 2020.
Following reports of initial interest, Lorient’s manager has discussed the goalkeeper situation at the club in recent weeks. However, the stumbling block was that Meslier will have to take a pay cut at Lorient if he were to re-join.
It was then said the Lorient move may now be off the table for Meslier. However, Graham Smyth has the latest on his situation at Elland Road and Lorient’s interest.
He states: “Meslier’s future remains up in the air with Lorient keen to bring the keeper back to where he started. That one is not done and Lorient are not alone in trying to make a late move for the Frenchman.”
- READ MORE: James Milner makes Premier League history for Leeds United and Brighton after goal v Man City
Eddie Gray’s long-term verdict on Leeds’ Illan Meslier
Eddie Gray insists Meslier will fulfill his potential, suggesting that, by 28 or 29, he will be playing for France and become a regular goalkeeper.
Perhaps it will be to France and Lorient for Meslier yet, especially if they can iron out the finer details to make a move happen. However, there is another consideration.
Goalkeeper Yvon Mvogo is returning to Lorient three months after his departure. That could mean it is another club that now seals a move for Meslier, with Smyth outlining other interest in the 25-year-old.
Receive a digest of our best Leeds content each week direct to your mailbox
