Illan Meslier in action for Leeds United. (imago Images)
Chelsea and rivals Manchester United are set to battle it out for Leeds United goalkeeper Illan Meslier in January. This is according to journalist Simon Phillips (h/t Express).
Edouard Mendy, who has lost his place as the undisputed number one at the west London club is weighing up on his future at the club. Kepa Arrizabalaga, who has stepped up in recent times looks to be the favoured option for Graham Potter going forward.
As for United, David de Gea is not getting any younger and sees his current contract expire in 2023. Their other keeper, Dean Henderson, is out on loan at Nottingham Forest and is believed he will not play second fiddle to anyone.
Meslier has been crucial for Jesse Marsch’s side this season. The France Under-21 international has started in all their 14 league games this season, keeping two clean sheets in the process.
The teenager has consistently impressed at Elland Road this season and it is not surprising to see the Blues linked with a move for him. He is not the only candidate with the west London side also interested in Brighton & Hove Albion shot-stopper Robert Sanchez.
While Kepa seems to be regaining his confidence and form, he is still inconsistent in the long run. With Mendy considering his future, a move for a young and talented goalkeeper would make sense for the club.
Meslier has been his side’s number one and whether he will be willing to move to a club where he will have to fight for his place, remains to be seen. But if he wants to win silverware and play European football, the Blues are better suited than Leeds to offer him that.
The 22-year-old was named in the French squad for the World Cup, meaning his price will not inflate much in January. It remains to be seen if the Blues make any approach for the youngster in one month’s time.
Mendy and Kepa are good and it’s best to single out one of the two and continue with him in the long run. We can think about the goalkeeper situation once we sort out other areas that need addressing in the long term – especially the forward line.
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