Leeds United has received a significant boost in their bid to keep hold of goalkeeper Illan Meslier, as Marseille has decided not to pursue a deal for the French shot-stopper. According to a report from L’Equipe, Marseille has opted out of the race to sign Meslier due to his high wage demands.
The news will come as a huge relief to Leeds United fans, who had feared that the club would be forced to sell Meslier due to their financial struggles. The Whites had been looking to offload some of their players to stay within the EFL’s financial rules, and Meslier was seen as a potential target for Marseille.
However, with Marseille no longer in the picture, Leeds United is under no pressure to sell Meslier, especially after the departure of Archie Gray to Tottenham. The 24-year-old goalkeeper has a contract at Elland Road until 2026 and has made 165 appearances for the Whites since joining from Lorient in 2019.
Meslier is a vastly experienced goalkeeper and is central to Daniel Farke’s plans. His departure would have been a huge blow to the club, especially as they aim to secure promotion next season. Karl Darlow is an experienced keeper who can step in if Meslier leaves, but it would be a gamble for the Whites.
Leeds United fans will be delighted to hear that Marseille has backed away from the race to sign Meslier. However, there are other clubs that might still take a punt on the French goalkeeper. Meslier has reportedly expressed his desire to leave Elland Road, but the club is under no pressure to sell him.
The decision by Marseille to pull out of the race to sign Meslier is a significant boost to Leeds United’s chances of keeping hold of their star goalkeeper. The Whites have already lost Gray this summer, and the departure of Meslier would have been a huge blow to their promotion hopes.
With Meslier still at the club, Leeds United can now focus on building a team that can challenge for promotion next season. The Whites have a talented squad, and with Meslier between the sticks, they have a solid foundation to build on.
In the end, Marseille’s decision to back away from the race to sign Meslier is a blessing in disguise for Leeds United. The Whites can now keep their star goalkeeper and build a team that can challenge for promotion next season. With Meslier still at the club, the future looks bright for Leeds United.