Illan Meslier reacts to Willy Gnonto amid Leeds exit news
Leeds United goalkeeper Illan Meslier has an uncertain future at the club as manager Daniel Farke lines up a new number one.
Meslier was dropped for the final seven matches of last season as 34-year-old Karl Darlow was chosen in-between the sticks over the Frenchman.
Leeds won the Championship title with 100 points to seal a return to the Premier League after two seasons away, alongside Burnley and play-off winners Sunderland.
Mainz goalkeeper Robin Zentner could become the club’s new goalkeeper on their top flight return as Farke eyes up the 30-year-old as a Meslier replacement.
Meslier reacts to Leeds ace ahead of transfer verdict
Gnonto was one of the star’s of Leeds’ title win, scoring nine goals and registering six assists in 43 Championship games.
The 21-year-old has been enjoying his post-season break as he shared on his Instagram, which Meslier liked.
The Whites start their Premier League campaign at Elland Road against Everton before travelling to title challengers Arsenal.
Goalkeeper next as Farke strengthens defence
Football Insider Verdict
Meslier could have cost Leeds a place in the Premier League if it wasn’t for Farke taking him out of the firing line for their final Championship fixtures.
The 25-year-old made some costly errors and the fan’s faith in the Frenchman seemed to wane which created an air of tension around Elland Road.
| Appearances | 39 |
| Goals Conceded | 27 |
| Clean Sheets | 21 |
Against Premier League strike forces, the Whites will be busier next season in their defensive work which will be a transition from their dominant Championship performances.
Farke therefore needs a strong and reliable number one and he clearly feels he cannot rely on Meslier any longer and his only other alternative is former Newcastle United keeper Darlow.
In preparation for the Premier League, Farke has been prioritising his defence and ensuring a stronger back four plays in-front of the goalkeeper.
Jaka Bijol has signed from Udinese and has Champions League experience as well as Sebastiaan Bornauw, who has joined from Wolfsburg.
Gabriel Gudmundsson was part of a Lille side with the second best defensive record in Ligue 1 last season, and has also played in the Champions League.
It is clear Farke wants to create a strong foundation for his side to be competitive next season and changing goalkeeper looks to be a high priority on his transfer list.