Leeds United may have just received a big boost in their attempt to keep hold of Illan Meslier.
After missing out on promotion last season, the Whites needed to offload a few players to stay within the EFL’s financial rules.
Meslier was targeted by French club Marseille this summer and it was feared that Leeds could offload him due to their uncomfortable financial position.
However, after selling Archie Gray to Tottenham and offloading a few other players, Leeds as such do not need to sell any of their remaining star players, but things could change if good offers come in from top clubs.
According to a report from L’Equipe, Marseille have decided not to pursue Meslier because of his high wage demands.
The French newspaper reported on 11 July that Marseille have earmarked Meslier among other candidates, including Brice Samba, Filip Jorgensen and Alvaro Valles.
The 24-year-old goalkeeper has a contract at Elland Road until 2026. He has made 165 appearances for the Whites since joining from Lorient, initially on loan, and later, the move was made permanent.
Meslier is a vastly experienced goalkeeper and he is central to Daniel Farke’s plans. Having already lost Gray, it would have come as a huge blow for the club if they had to lose Meslier as well, although the goalkeeper reportedly wishes to leave Elland Road.
Losing such an experienced player could have hurt them because the Whites aim to secure promotion next season.
Karl Darlow is an experienced keeper who can step in if Meslier leaves, but it could be a real gamble. Leeds are under no pressure to sell Meslier, especially after Gray’s exit, and keeping him at the club would be the best decision.
Leeds fans will be relieved to find that Marseille have decided to back away from the race, but there are other clubs who might take a punt on the French goalkeeper.
