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Scouting expert: Leeds United should get 'way over' £30-40m for Illan Meslier next summer
We’re delighted to welcome Football Manager’s Wolves researcher Dave Azzopardi as our exclusive columnist. Each week the scouting expert will be giving his views on the biggest talking points on Wonderkids across the UK…
Leeds should demand “way over” £30-40m should goalkeeper Illan Meslier look to leave the club next summer, according to Dave Azzopardi.
The France under-21 international has excelled as the first-choice at Elland Road over recent seasons, and has attracted attention and interest from the likes of Tottenham and Manchester United according to reports.
With his contract currently running until 2026, Meslier will have three years remaining on his deal next summer but with several top sides looking to improve their goalkeeper department he could become a key target. If he does, Leeds should be demanding a huge fee says Azzopardi.
“It’s an interesting one because I think Leeds probably keep hold of him until the end of the season and see what he wants to do in regards to his contract situation,” he told The Football Wonderkids.
“I think the good thing about Meslier is that he’s tidied up a lot on his errors. I think when he first came he was a top goalkeeper who made good saves, but there was still a couple of clangers in his locker. I think he’s tidied that up over the last 12 months or so.
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“Give him until the end of the season to see what he wants to do with his contract. As soon as you start heading into those last two years of a contract it’s a dangerous game. If you keep hold of him for another year you’re into the final year and that’s when you risk losing him on a free.
“In terms of value, Premier League experience is invaluable. For him by the end of the year he’s going to be getting close to around 100 Premier League appearances at such a young age. A good 10-15 years left in his locker as a goalkeeper as well.
“I’m not 100% sure of the sort of value that Leeds paid for him, but I think you’re look way over £30-40m for a decent experienced goalkeeper whose young.
“It would be intriguing to see what sort of team he goes to. Maybe he goes to a Tottenham with Lloris getting towards the end of his career, maybe swap one French keeper for another.
“But there are a number of top teams around Europe that will be looking for a goalkeeper every couple of seasons and I think that’s where he can look for his future.”
In other Leeds news, Joe Gelhardt could have a breakthrough season this year