Marseille have now began talks with Leeds United over a deal to sign Illan Meslier this summer.
News of Marseille’s interest first broke late on Thursday afternoon and it would now appear it has advanced somewhat, with conversations underway.
Meslier has been number one at Elland Road for four-and-a-half-years now and at just 24, has already amassed 175 appearances during his time at Leeds.
However, it would be fair to say Meslier has not quite developed into the goalkeeper he promised to be during his early days in Leeds’ first team, despite Daniel Farke labelling him as the ‘best’ in the division.
Leeds are in need of making at least one big sale this summer and if it was to be Meslier, there wouldn’t be many supporters who would argue against it.
What is Meslier’s stance on staying at Leeds this summer
After a torrid end to the 2022/23 campaign that actually saw him dropped to the bench for Leeds’ final four matches, Meslier had looked likely to move on last summer.
However, Farke made it clear behind-the-scenes he was someone they were to keen to keep, and Meslier was happy to do so.
The 24-year-old cited Farke’s style of play and his role in Leeds’ relegation as the main two reasons for his decision to remain at Elland Road, but failure to win promotion could well have changed that stance.
According to French outlet La Provence, Meslier is keen on leaving Leeds this summer and a move to Marseille is one that appeals to him.
As mentioned, contact has already started between Marseille and Meslier, though any deal still remains in the early stages, with other clubs also interested.
Meslier still has two years left on his deal in West Yorkshire and Leeds should be able to negotiate a decent profit on the £5 million they paid Lorient in 2019.
Leeds have identified potential Meslier replacement
Leeds have already drawn up a list of replacements in the event Meslier moves on, which does seem as though it will be the case.
One of those includes Fulham goalkeeper Marek Rodak, who is currently one of Slovakia’s reserve goalkeepers to Martin Dubravka at the Euros.
Rodak is actually set to be available on a free transfer this summer and so could represent a bargain deal, given he has twice helped Fulham to promotion from the Championship as their number one.
At 27, Rodak is still a great age for a goalkeeper and could actually represent an upgrade on Meslier at a fraction of the fee Leeds may receive by selling the Frenchman.