Leeds United goalkeeper Illan Meslier could be lined up for a return to his former club Lorient, as manager Olivier Pantaloni confirms their interest.
Leeds’ first game back in the Premier League this evening will see new signings turn out for their competitive debuts, including new goalkeeper Lucas Perri between the sticks.
It was a hugely important signing for Leeds to make during pre-season, and Perri’s arrival as a starter leaves the exit door wide open for Illan Meslier.
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Leeds United goalkeeper Illan Meslier could be heading back to Lorient
The writing was on the wall for Meslier from the moment Daniel Farke dropped him for Karl Darlow away at Luton Town back in April, and an exit might be best for all parties.
In terms of interested parties, his former club Lorient are now confirmed to be looking into bringing the Frenchman back to Brittany.
(Action Images/Craig Brough)
Journalist Sacha Tavolieri reported that Lorient have made contact with Leeds over the signing, and now it has been confirmed by their manager Olivier Pantaloni.
Speaking after their 1-0 defeat away at Auxerre at the weekend, Pantaloni confirmed his club are in the hunt for a new goalkeeper and Meslier is on the shortlist:
“He is on the list,” the 58-year-old shared to Le Telegramme.
Illan Meslier needs to leave, but Leeds United need profit from his exit
It’s very obvious that Leeds need to be getting rid of Meslier for the betterment of the ‘keeper’s career more than anything else.
The issue they have is that they also need to be posting a profit for the PSR calculations to free up more spending, and his stock couldn’t be lower right now.
A return to Lorient makes a lot of sense, but their ability to finance a deal looks quite unclear, depending on how much Leeds want for him.
Let me know your thoughts in the comments below!