Promotion to the Premier League will see Leeds United enter the transfer market this summer and look to build a side capable of survival – but The 49ers will have to make some room.
The 49ers want to make six signings with Paraag Marathe telling Leeds fans that the club have already put in work in the eventuality that Daniel Farke would get The Whites promoted to the Premier League.
A new goalkeeper, cover at centre-back, a replacement for Junior Firpo, another midfielder, a permanent deal for Manor Solomon, a no.10 and a proven Premier League no.9 are all areas that Leeds could target.
But in order to make room, to raise funds for new signings and to help balance Profit & Sustainability Rules, Leeds will have to cash in on one or two. Phil Hay has identified one player he thinks will depart.
Phil Hay predicts Illan Meslier to leave Leeds United this summer
Meslier has been dropped by gaffer Farke of late, with Karl Darlow impressing in the error-strewn star’s absence. Three clean sheets in the last five games for Darlow, Leeds taking 13 points from a possible 15.
Not only has Meslier been axed for Wales no.1 Darlow, but the £5m signing from Lorient is about to go into the final year of his contract. Hay told The Athletic’s podcast that he thinks Meslier “is done”.
“Meslier, I struggle to see being first choice at Leeds again. I might be wrong. But the way in which it has happened this season, dropping out of the team on the back of two or three years of downward spiral.
“It makes you think he needs a fresh start and Leeds need to go after a new first-choice goalkeeper. I’d be really surprised if they don’t. I feel like he’s done,” Hay said when discussing who could leave Leeds.
Three clubs are interested in signing Illan Meslier this summer
Farke is considering the future of Meslier, with Leeds required to sell Meslier in the coming months if they want to bring in a decent fee. Beyond this summer, Leeds will have to sell the Frenchman for a bargain.
Rennes could look to raid Leeds again after signing Glen Kamara from Leeds last summer, while Leicester City are a surprise contender. The Foxes may need a new goalkeeper with Mads Hermansen likely to go.
Ligue 1 side Strasbourg are in the mix for Champions League qualification and Liam Rosenior could look to bring Meslier back to his home nation. So, plenty of interest if Meslier and Leeds opt to sell him.
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