Illan Meslier remains in a difficult situation at Leeds United.
A series of mistakes from the Frenchman last season led Daniel Farke to drop him for Karl Darlow in the final seven Championship outings – drawing one before winning six in a row to end the campaign, which was telling.
Voetbal Krant in Belgium now provide an update on Illan Meslier – who seemingly has just a matter of weeks remaining at Elland Road following the arrival of Lucas Perri.
Club Brugge want Illan Meslier with Leeds ready to sell, but “expensive” valuation is odd given the circumstances
The Belgian news outlet claim that Leeds have decided to sell the 25-year-old in January, with Club Brugge now making an approach for the man born in Lorient.
Meslier – who Anderlecht also want – sees his contract expire at the end of the season, and rather than offer an extension and keep him around as third choice, Leeds have opted to try and cash in this winter.
Voetbal Krant do not mention a price tag, but they do state that the France U21 international will be “expensive” this January – which is a bizarre stance considering Leeds need to sell.
The word “expensive” could have a slightly different meaning for a Belgian club compared to a Premier League side – however – given the financial disparity of the domestic leagues.
Illan Meslier in action for Leeds against Burnley.
Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images
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Leeds spent £5m to sign Meslier – who Celtic also like – from Lorient back in July 2020, so it is not entirely out of the question that a profit is made this winter if a Belgian bidding war commences.
Standard Liege are also said to have some interest in the Leeds No.16 – so Belgium certainly looks a likely destination for the goalkeeper.
How much Leeds will save on wages once Illan Meslier leaves
Whether a sale does happen in January or Meslier leaves for free in July, Leeds are set to save a decent chunk of cash in terms of wages when he departs.
The glovesman currently earns £30,000-a-week in Yorkshire (according to Capology), the same salary as Jayden Bogle and slightly more than Ao Tanaka, who is said to make £25,000-a-week.
It means Farke could potentially use this space on the wage bill to make a new signing in January, should another side buy Meslier, or put it towards a new contract for one of his more reliable players.