Leeds United Eyeing "World-Class" Goalkeeper to Replace Illan Meslier
Leeds United are reportedly targeting a "world-class" goalkeeper to replace Illan Meslier next season. Despite Meslier’s consistent role under manager Daniel Farke, the French goalkeeper’s costly errors have raised concerns about his long-term future at the club.
Leeds currently lead the Championship table with eight games remaining, but the race for automatic promotion to the Premier League remains tight. The Whites have four home fixtures against Swansea City, Preston North End, Stoke City, and Bristol City, alongside challenging away trips to Luton Town, Middlesbrough, Oxford United, and Plymouth Argyle.
Meslier, 25, has made over 200 appearances for Leeds but has faced criticism for his mistakes, including in a 3-3 draw with Hull City earlier this season. Farke defended the goalkeeper, stating, "When the goalkeeper makes one or two mistakes, it is natural to talk about changes. But we don’t change a goalkeeper quickly like a full-back. Straight after the game, I am not going to finger point."
However, Meslier’s performance metrics this season have been underwhelming. According to data, he ranks 18th in the Championship for goals prevented, with a negative score of -2.7. In contrast, Burnley’s James Trafford leads the league with +11.4 goals prevented, followed by Viktor Johansson (Stoke City) and Jamie Cumming (Oxford United).
Leeds are now reportedly preparing to address this issue by targeting Liverpool’s Caoimhin Kelleher in the summer. The Republic of Ireland international, valued at around £25 million, has drawn comparisons to England’s Jordan Pickford and is highly regarded for his performances. Kelleher’s standout moment came in the 2024 EFL Cup final, where he was instrumental in Liverpool’s victory over Chelsea. Virgil van Dijk praised him, saying, "He’s world-class and stepped up today. He’s a good boy, good goalkeeper, and that’s what we need at a club like Liverpool."
Leeds face competition from other clubs for Kelleher’s signature, and any potential deal hinges on their promotion to the Premier League. For now, the focus remains on securing promotion, with Meslier expected to start the remaining fixtures.
The situation highlights Leeds’ ambition to strengthen their squad as they aim for a Premier League return. However, their plans for players like Kelleher will only materialize if they achieve their primary goal on the pitch.
