Leeds United head coach Daniel Farke has refused to rule out the possibility of Illan Meslier leaving Elland Road during the January transfer window.
The French goalkeeper has fallen down the pecking order and remains unused this season, raising fresh questions about his long-term future at the club.
Meslier’s Fall From First Choice
Meslier lost his place last season after a series of costly errors, with Farke opting to finish the campaign with Karl Darlow as his first-choice goalkeeper.
Toward the end of the season, a former EFL striker suggested that even if Leeds won promotion, Meslier could not be trusted as the club’s number one in the Premier League.
Summer Moves and Lack of Game Time
Leeds were proactive in the summer transfer window, signing Lucas Perri to strengthen their goalkeeping options.
Even when the Brazilian picked up an injury, it was Darlow — not Meslier — who Farke trusted between the posts.
Meslier did attract interest during the summer, with:
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Como (Italy) monitoring his situation
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Galatasaray also linked, though Leeds ruled out a sale
None of the approaches progressed into a deal.
Contract Situation Raises Questions
Meslier has not featured once this season, and with his contract set to expire in June 2026, Leeds risk losing him on a free transfer if his situation does not change.
Despite this, Farke insists the 25-year-old remains part of his plans and is highly rated behind the scenes.
Farke: “I Rate Him That Much”
Speaking at a press conference, Farke said:
“All the players in the squad are part of my plans.”
He added:
“Illan… I rate him that much and I think he is a goalkeeper full of potential.
Unbelievably young for a goalkeeper.At this young age to have so many games at Championship and Premier League level is remarkable.”
Farke also stressed that Leeds currently have no intention of reshaping their goalkeeping department:
“It’s not the plan to do anything… from my side there is no proactive wish to change my goalkeeping squad at all.”
‘Of Course It Can Change’ in January
However, the Leeds boss stopped short of offering a full guarantee, admitting things could shift if a player pushes for a move:
“Of course it can change in January if someone wants to leave anyhow due to a situation…”
Leeds United Goalkeeper Options
| Goalkeeper | Nationality |
|---|---|
| Lucas Perri | Brazilian |
| Karl Darlow | Welsh |
| Illan Meslier | French |
| Alex Cairns | English |
What Happens Next?
Meslier’s fall from grace has been significant. At one point, he was reportedly Manchester United’s top goalkeeping target, while Newcastle United were still monitoring him as recently as 2024.
It remains unclear whether Meslier will seek a January exit or wait until next summer to move on from Leeds United.
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