Illan Meslier with Leeds badge in frame
Credit: Imago
Josh Edwards
Sat 15 November 2025 7:10, UK
Illan Meslier’s Leeds United nightmare could come to an end in January.
Leeds United have work to do in the January transfer window, though their ability to take advantage of it will largely hinge on the whereabouts of Daniel Farke.
Incoming deals could be hindered by the uncertainty over Farke’s future, though it isn’t likely to impact outgoing business.
After Meslier’s summer transfer fell through, a new opportunity may emerge in the winter, and it would be a real kick in the teeth for the Whites.
Illan Meslier looking sad at Leeds United
Credit: Imago
Leeds set to lose Illan Meslier on a free transfer
On Thursday, Sky Sports revealed a list of Premier League players whose contracts are up at the end of the season.
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Meslier features on that list, alongside several other Leeds stars who look to have no future at Elland Road beyond the current campaign.
There was interest in Meslier in the summer, though clubs abroad seemed unwilling to pay a fee to land his services, given his contract situation.
The Frenchman will be able to agree terms on a pre-contract with a club abroad in seven weeks, which certainly seems like a possible outcome.
Elland Road, home of Leeds United.
Credit: Imago
Given the transfer value he once had and the level of interest in him over the last few years, it will be disappointing for Leeds to get nothing for his exit.
Three other Leeds stars set for free transfers
Meslier isn’t the only goalkeeper seemingly heading for the exit, with Karl Darlow and Alex Cairns also out of contract at the end of the campaign.
Given Darlow’s experience, he may be offered a new deal, though it is remarkably hard to see any future for Cairns, whose last Leeds appearance was 14 years ago.
Sam Byram’s deal is also up at the end of the campaign, and given the fact that he has been out of favour this campaign, there’s little future to be had at Elland Road for him.
All four could agree on a transfer in January with a foreign club, though Darlow and Byram are likely to stay in England.
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