Leeds United employee shares Illan Meslier claim as transfer agreed
Noel Whelan has hailed the “really wise” signing of Joel Robles as Leeds United look for a “senior professional” to aid with Illan Meslier’s development.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, backed the FA Cup winner to step up as an able deputy if the French youngster suffers injury.
Leeds United confirmed the free transfer arrival of Robles, 32, last week (9 August) after his Real Betis contract expired earlier this summer.
The former Everton, Atletico Madrid and Wigan Athletic shot-stopper has signed a one-year deal at Elland Road.
First-choice goalkeeper Meslier kept just five clean sheets in 38 Premier League outings last season – conceding a league-high 78 goals in a difficult season for Leeds United.
Whelan suggested Robles has still got “a lot to give” between the sticks despite being second in the pecking order.
He told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury: “Look, we know the experience Robles will bring – especially with the calibre of clubs he’s been at.
“It’ll be a big help, not just in the dressing room, but to Meslier as well.
“He’s still very, very young so he can learn from that senior professional next to him.
“He will also give us someone to rely on if something does happen to Meslier.
“It’s a really wise signing. Someone who has been around the block but has also still got a lot to give.
“He is obviously quite happy to be a number two and help along the way with Meslier’s progression.”
In other news, Football Insider updates as Leeds United see £3million bid for Championship sensation rejected.