‘Leeds make Illan Meslier decision with Liverpool star Caoimhin Kelleher lined up’
Leeds United have seemingly made their decision over Illan Meslier’s future as they have eyed a move for Liverpool’s Caoimhin Kelleher.
While the Whites lifted the Championship title and earned promotion to the Premier League, Meslier produced a catalogue of errors throughout the campaign.
The 25-year-old’s mishaps between the sticks saw him dropped in favour of Karl Darlow for a second tier clash with Luton Town on 5 April.
Darlow remained in goal for the rest of the season, which proved to be the right choice from Daniel Farke as Leeds clinched promotion back to the top flight.
Meslier set for exit door as Leeds set sights on Kelleher
Meslier has made over 200 appearances for Leeds, representing the West Yorkshire giants in both the Championship and the Premier League.
But according to The Guardian [28 May], Farke’s men have inquired about Liverpool goalkeeper Kelleher, who made 10 Premier League appearances for the Reds this term.
Having effectively deputised for Alisson over the years, the Ireland international will now be intent on becoming a number one choice elsewhere.
Therefore, if Leeds sign the 26-year-old, it could spell the end of the road for Meslier’s time with the West Yorkshire side.
Having served as the Whites’ number one since 2020, the Frenchman would likely be unhappy with becoming Kelleher’s back-up option, a role Darlow may be more content with having deputised for Meslier before helping steer Farke’s men to the Premier League.
Kelleher could be a great signing for Leeds
The Guardian’s aforementioned report says that West Ham United and Brentford have also inquired about Kelleher, but if Farke’s side successfully land his services, he could prove to be a great acquisition.
| Caoimhin Kelleher stats | Premier League 2024/25 |
| Appearances | 10 |
| Clean sheets | 4 |
| Saves | 27 |
The Elland Road club require Premier League experience among their ranks as they look to bridge the ever-increasing gap between the Championship and the top flight.
Premier League nous is a quality Kelleher boasts, while the Ireland international’s services would also be an upgrade on that of Meslier.
The shotstopper’s role in Liverpool’s title-clinching success this term should not be understated, as he maintained four clean sheets in 10 league outings while Alisson was injured.
Alongside his praiseworthy exploits for the Reds, Kelleher boasts 22 senior caps for Ireland, further exemplifying his ability to ply his trade at a high level.
The 26-year-old’s career to date indicates that he boasts the necessary credentials to help Farke’s men avoid an unwanted Championship return.
Meanwhile, as reported by MOT Leeds News, the Whites have eyed a move for West Ham defender Aaron Cresswell.