Leeds United star takes action as stance to Marseille interest revealed | OneFootball

Illan Meslier has been linked with a move to Marseille this summer

Leeds United’s Illan Meslier has reportedly been in contact with Marseille over a proposed transfer and is keen on completing a move.

According to French outlet La Provence, the Ligue 1 club is weighing up a move to sign the goalkeeper this summer.

Roberto de Zerbi’s side could be in the market for a new first-choice shot-stopper if Pau Lopez opts to make the switch to Italian outfit Como.

The Spaniard has been linked with a move to the newly promoted Serie A team, which has opened the door for a new arrival at Marseille in his place.

This has seen Meslier’s name mentioned as a potential target, with de Zerbi now in the charge of the European giants.

Illan Meslier’s interest in Marseille

Brice Samba is also on Marseille’s radar as a potential replacement for Lopez, but it is understood that the finances of the deal are seen as off-putting.

Samba previously spent time at the French club from 2013 to 2017, but was unable to cement himself as the first choice between the sticks.

This led to his departure to Caen in 2017 and will be known to English football followers for his stint at Nottingham Forest from 2019 to 2022.

But it is believed that it will be quite costly to lure him from league rivals Lens, who recently appointed Will Still as manager.

This has led to Marseille turning their attention to the Leeds goalkeeper, with early enquiries being made over a possible transfer.

Talks are still at a very tentative stage, and there are no guarantees that a deal can be found with the Championship side.

It is claimed that the Frenchman also has other suitors that could swoop in for a deal ahead of de Zerbi’s side.

But there is optimism that Meslier is keen on a switch to Marseille, with his contract set to expire in the summer of 2026.

Leeds United’s transfer stance

Leeds’ financial position has been well documented this summer, but the sale of Archie Gray to Tottenham Hotspur for £40 million has eased concerns over potential rule breaches.

This should give the Whites some wiggle room in any negotiations for further player sales, such as Meslier.

It remains to be seen what kind of figure it would take to convince the Yorkshire outfit to cash in on the 24-year-old.

Given he still has two years remaining on his current deal, there is no immediate need to sell, but Leeds may still be tempting at the right price.

Meslier’s desire to move back to France could force Leeds’ hands

Meslier’s time at Leeds has seen his form go up and down over the last few years, but there is no denying his potential to become a top player in his position given his young age.

The Frenchman could have departed 12 months ago after relegation was suffered, but stayed at Elland Road and performed well in the Championship.

He is a player that could earn a significant fee for the Whites, and two years remaining on his contract could mean that now is a good time to cash in on that value.