Turkish Super Lig side Besiktas have identified Leeds United goalkeeper Illan Meslier as a potential transfer target, as they seek to bolster their squad before the Turkish transfer window closes this Friday. The Black Eagles have been actively exploring options between the posts after an initial approach for another Leeds shot-stopper, Lucas Perri, was turned down last week.
Meslier's Fall from Grace at Elland Road
Illan Meslier, once a revered figure at Leeds United under the management of Marcelo Bielsa, has experienced a significant decline in his standing at the club. The French goalkeeper played a pivotal role during Leeds' establishment in the Premier League, serving as the undisputed first-choice custodian for five consecutive seasons. However, his fortunes have dramatically shifted this campaign.
Meslier has not featured for a single minute of competitive action this season and finds himself relegated to third choice in the pecking order, behind Karl Darlow and Lucas Perri. His involvement has been limited to just five appearances on the substitutes' bench, with his last matchday squad inclusion occurring on November 29 during Leeds' 3-2 defeat to Manchester City.
Contract Situation and Leeds' Considerations
The 25-year-old goalkeeper's contract at Elland Road is set to expire in the summer of 2025, making a January move potentially appealing for all parties. An offer from Besiktas could provide Leeds with a transfer fee for a player who is otherwise likely to depart on a free transfer at the end of the season.
Nevertheless, Leeds United will be cautious about sanctioning any departure without ensuring adequate cover remains available. The club will be mindful of the risk of leaving themselves short-handed should either Darlow or Perri sustain an injury during the remainder of the season.
Besiktas' Goalkeeping Search
Besiktas' pursuit of Meslier comes after earlier attempts to secure alternative goalkeeping options proved unsuccessful. At the beginning of the month, the Istanbul-based club targeted Chelsea's Danish goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen, who was reportedly open to the move, but negotiations ultimately failed to progress.
The Turkish transfer window remains open until Friday, providing Besiktas with a narrow timeframe to complete any deal for Meslier. The club's determination to strengthen their goalkeeping department underscores their ambition to compete effectively in domestic and European competitions.
Meslier's Experience and Potential Impact
Should the transfer materialise, Illan Meslier would bring considerable experience to the Turkish Super Lig. Throughout his career, the Frenchman has amassed 261 professional appearances, demonstrating his durability and capability at a high level.
His CV includes two promotions with Leeds United and the notable achievement of winning the Championship's Golden Glove award in the 2023-24 season, after keeping an impressive 19 clean sheets. This pedigree suggests he could make a significant impact in Turkey.
At Besiktas, Meslier would join a squad featuring several familiar faces from English football, including former Leicester City midfielder Wilfrid Ndidi, Nottingham Forest loanee Jota Silva, and Yasin Ozcan, who is on loan from Aston Villa. This contingent of players with experience in British football could help facilitate his adaptation to a new league and environment.
