‘Illian Meslier decision set as Leeds strike deal for replacement’
Leeds United have found their replacement for goalkeeper Illian Meslier as they continue to strengthen their squad ahead of their Premier League return.
The Whites will compete in the Premier League next season for the first time in two years and manager Daniel Farke is acting quickly to upgrade his squad.
Farke has focused on defensive additions with two new centre-backs and a left-back signed along with striker Lukas Nmecha from Wolfsburg and midfielder Sean Longstaff from Newcastle United.
Leeds begun their pre-season campaign against rivals Manchester United in Stockholm, with the game finishing in a 0-0 draw.
Meslier ousted as Farke finds replacement
According to Fabrice Hawkins of RMC Sports, Farke has now acquired a new goalkeeper with Lucas Perri set to join from Lyon.
The French club were demoted to Ligue 2 due to their financial position, but after an appeal Lyon will continue to play in Ligue 1 next season.
Perri only joined Lyon last summer, and was their number one as they came sixth in Ligue 1 and reached the quarter-finals of the Europa League, before being knocked out by Manchester United.
The 27-year-old will provide an upgrade on Meslier, who was dropped at the end of last season for his mistakes which could have cost Leeds promotion to the top flight.
The Frenchman now creates an uneasy atmosphere at Elland Road due to his performances, so signing a new goalkeeper was a must for Farke this summer.
The atmosphere at Elland Road should now be electric as the fans will play a huge role in supporting the team and ensuring Leeds make the most of home advantage.
Perri arrivals adds to Leeds’ ambitions
Perri is another superb addition from Farke to strengthen his defence, and Leeds look like they could be a tough team to break down next season.
| Appearances | 45 |
| Goals Conceded | 60 |
| Clean Sheets | 13 |
Farke getting business down early is key for Leeds as it ensures the new signings have time to gel ahead of their first league match against Everton.
A draw and clean sheet against Man United is a solid start to pre-season and upcoming matches against Villarreal and AC Milan will also provide stern tests to assess the strength of the squad.
The Premier League experience of Longstaff in-front of the back four will also help shield the defence, and Farke now only needs to add goals to his front line and Leeds will put themselves in a superb position to avoid the drop.
Doing so, however, will be a tough ask.