A very interesting story emerged in the news this week, revealing that Leeds United almost signed a player who eventually joined a big Premier League side. The club had made their minds up to go after a keeper after Illan Meslier’s shambolic end to the season.
Leeds explored a deal for Royal Antwerp keeper Senne Lammens, but were put off by the asking price. The Whites were among a host of English clubs who felt the youngster was not ready to star in the Premier League. Manchester United eventually signed him on deadline day.
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Daniel Farke did get his man during the window, as the club splashed the cash on Lyon keeper Lucas Perri. Despite the Brazilian’s shaky start to the season, he has been in goal as Leeds have kept two clean sheets in three Premier League games.
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Why Leeds United star is yet to move
Credit: Imago
Perri’s arrival at Elland Road meant one thing, Illan Meslier was no longer first choice. But Daniel Farke’s decision shocked fans even more. According to the Leeds boss, the French stopper has fallen to third-choice in the pecking order. Since the season began, Meslier has not made a single matchday squad, leading to rumours of an exit.
He has had many suitors this summer, including Lorient, Como and Valencia. But he still remains at Elland Road. Leeds United News have revealed that the keeper’s wages have been the stumbling block in some of these deals. Meslier is said to earn in excess of £30,000-a-week which translates to almost £2million a year.
Red Bull step in to facilitate exit
Despite England’s transfer window closing, other clubs across Europe can still make moves until their deadline is up. Graeme Bailey has revealed that Leeds are working with their Red Bull connections to try and find a destination for the 25-year old soon:
“I think there are definitely a few options for Meslier still. Turkey? Absolutely, yes, they are one of those.
“However, I’m also told Leeds hierarchy and Red Bull higher ups are using their connections and looking for destinations for him — and his people are also working hard.
“The likes of Austria, Belgium, Greece, Poland, Saudi Arabia, and UAE — there are still options for him, if he has the appetite for it.”
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