Leeds United goalkeeper Illan Meslier latest as Besiktas 'official offer' claim emerges
Turkish giants Besiktas do not view a deal for Leeds United’s Illan Meslier as a difficult one to do, according to a report.
The 25-year-old has made over 200 appearances for Leeds since he arrived on British shores from Lorient in 2019.
He has spent the bulk of his time in West Yorkshire as the first-choice goalkeeper, but has been leapfrogged by both Lucas Perri and Karl Darlow in the pecking order this season.
The former France youth international has not made a single competitive appearance since last term, yet has not managed to seal an exit.
Illan Meslier latest
However, recent reports have indicated he could be on his way to Besiktas. Turkish clubs have until tomorrow (February 6), meaning a deal could be struck despite the closure of England’s transfer window.
It had been suggested Besiktas had taken a look at Perri, as well as Chelsea’s Filip Jorgensen. Meslier, however, is now seemingly the man in their sights.
Speaking to MOT Leeds News, reporter Dokugan Yildirim of Turkish outlet Sabah said: “Besiktas is interested in Meslier. No official offer has been made. Besiktas doesn’t see this transfer as very difficult.
“With very little time left, they might not sign a goalkeeper, the Jorgensen option has also been cancelled. Things will become clear very soon.”
Meslier is out of contract at Elland Road in the summer, therefore the Whites are unlikely to pocket a significant fee if he is moved on.
Illan Meslier’s tumble down the pecking order
Meslier was dropped from Daniel Farke’s XI last season following a series of blunders between the sticks. He had previously been axed from the side in 2023, when Sam Allardyce promoted Joel Robles above the Frenchman.
It has been tough for fans to see Meslier’s stock plummet considering he was once deemed among the most talented young goalkeepers in Europe.
He helped the Whites seal promotion from the Championship in 2020 and across his first two seasons in the top flight, won plenty of plaudits for his exploits.
Meslier’s departure would leave Leeds with three senior goalkeepers - Perri, Darlow and Alex Cairns - in their ranks.