Leeds United star presents 'golden opportunity' for Europa Conference League club
The latest transfer talk from Leeds United as one Whites star is linked with a move to his home country.
Ligue 1 club Strasbourg are reportedly ready to make a firm move to secure the free transfer signing of Leeds United goalkeeper Illan Meslier in the new year.
The long-serving stopper has now made over 200 appearances during his six-year stay at Elland Road and has helped the Whites to two promotions during that time. However, the former France Under-21 goalkeeper lost his place to Wales international Karl Darlow during the final weeks of last season’s Championship title-winning campaign and is yet to make an appearance in any competition since the club returned to the top flight.
Summer signing Lucas Perri was immediately installed as first-choice stopper following his arrival from Lyon and Darlow stepped in when the Brazilian star suffered an injury earlier in the campaign. The closest Meslier has come to seeing any game-time were four unused substitute appearances during Perri’s absence - but he has since dropped out of the matchday squad for the Whites last five Premier League fixtures.
Speculation over Meslier’s future has been ongoing in recent months as he approaches the final stages of his current deal at Leeds and the likes of Anderlecht, Club Brugge, Inter and AC Milan have all been named as possible suitors by various media outlets on the continent. The 25-year-old will be able to negotiate a pre-contract agreement with a club outside of England in January before making a free transfer move next summer - and his situation has reportedly attracted attention from Europa Conference League qualifiers Strasbourg.
On-loan Chelsea goalkeeper Mike Penders is currently the Ligue 1 club’s first-choice stopper but he is expected to return to Stamford Bridge next summer - and French outlet Jeunes Footeux have claimed Meslier’s current contract situation will present a ‘golden opportunity’ to lure the Whites star to the Stade de la Meinau at the end of the season. A source has reportedly suggested the ‘timing seems perfect’ for Meslier to return to his home country next summer and join Liam Rosenior’s side and claimed the Whites keeper could be persuaded to snub interest from elsewhere by ‘guaranteed playing time and a seductive sports project’.
Your next Leeds United read: Predicted Leeds United line-up vs Man City with injury replacements, Gnonto, James calls and shape decision