Illan Meslier attracts Lille 'interest' following confirmation of Leeds United departure
Outgoing Leeds United goalkeeper Illan Meslier reported as potential target for Lille
Illan Meslier is reportedly of interest to Ligue 1 outfit Lille as he prepares to leave Leeds United as a free agent.
The 26-year-old will officially become unattached when his Leeds contract expires at the end of the month. He is seeking pastures new after 215 appearances for the Whites over the course of seven years.
Having once been considered among Europe’s most exciting young goalkeepers, Meslier will be determined to find form again in a new environment.
Outgoing Leeds United man attracts ‘interest’
According to SportsBoom, the former France Under-21s international could get the chance to rebuild his career back in his home country.
Lille are said to be exploring a free transfer move for the stopper, who won the Championship title with Leeds in 2020 and 2025.
Les Dogues are said to have been attracted by the experience Meslier has accumulated, as well as the potential he still has at just 26.
Illan Meslier’s time at Leeds United
When Leeds confirmed Meslier was being allowed to move on, it did not come as a surprise. He spent the entirety of the 2025/26 season as Leeds’ third-choice goalkeeper, behind Karl Darlow and Lucas Perri in the pecking order.
The Frenchman even lost the number one shirt, taking on number 16 after Perri’s £15.6m switch from Lyon.
He made two appearances at under-21 level last term but ended the season without having been afforded a single senior outing.
Meslier first lost his place between the sticks at Elland Road in 2023, when Joel Robles was promoted from his understudy role by Sam Allardyce.
He regained his place following the appointment of Daniel Farke as manager, but the German axed him last year after a series of blunders. Darlow took his place and later batted off competition from Perri to again become the goalkeeper of choice.
In a farewell message shared via social media, Meslier said Leeds will “always” be part of who he is.
He said: “After seven years, the time has come to take on a new challenge and step into a new chapter of my career. Leeds will never leave me. This city, this club, this shirt ; it’s part of who I am now and always will be. Thank you for everything. Marching On Together, always.”