Illan Meslier is in headlines at Leeds United right now, but for all the wrong reasons. The Frenchman seems to face an uncertain future after his Hull City horror show last time out.
Illan Meslier is often a talking point among Leeds United fans. Of late though, it’s often been because of his poor performances and individual errors that have caused his side to drop points.
Last time out, Meslier had a horror performance against Hull City. He was arguably at fault for the first goal, though there was no doubt about the second. Meslier left his Leeds teammates fuming after he palmed the ball into the path of striker Joao Pedro, sparking Hull’s comeback that day.
Daniel Farke says he won’t drop Meslier anytime soon, but there’s growing pressure for him to do so. With the January transfer window now in full swing, it gives Leeds the chance to replace Meslier should they wish, or to stick with him for the business end of the season.
Leeds United eyeing River Plate goalkeeper Jeremias Ledesma
Several goalkeepers have been linked with moves to Elland Road of late, perhaps most notably Liverpool’s Caoimhin Kelleher. But the Whites have now identified another potential Meslier replacement in River Plate goalkeeper Jeremias Ledesma.
An emerging report from Argentinian outlet River Noticias claims that Leeds have the 31-year-old shot-stopper ‘on their radar’ and that he ‘could leave’ before the January transfer window slams shut on February 3rd.
Ledesma, also known as Conan Ledesma, rose through the ranks with Rosario Central in his native Argentina. Spending a few seasons as their no.1, he then headed to Spain with Cadiz in 2021 where he spent a further three years, making 138 total appearances including 106 in La Liga as a permanent Cadiz player.
He’s now struggling for gametime at River Plate where he’s made just four appearances since joining in 2024.
Daniel Farke’s Illan Meslier U-turn at Leeds United
Despite Farke stating that he won’t drop Meslier, it’s now been reported that Leeds are ready to replace Meslier during the January transfer window. Though where they’ll look for a replacement remains to be seen.
Ledesma has good experience in La Liga, albeit not a huge amount for a 31-year-old, and he’s not exactly match fit. He’s never played in England either, whereas current no.2 Karl Darlow has.
Darlow could end up fuming if Farke signs a whole new no.1 to replace Meslier instead of giving him a go in the Championship.
Darlow will surely start against Harrogate Town in the FA Cup on Saturday and it’ll be a good chance for Farke to drop Meslier, should that be his intentions.
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