Exclusive: Huge Kiko Casilla development after Leeds talks

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Published on:

10 Aug 2020, 7:30 am

Leeds United have told Kiko Casilla he will be the number two goalkeeper if he stays at the club next season, Football Insider understands.

Casilla, 33, has been the number one for most of his 18 months at the club but lost that status after his eight-match racism ban.

A Leeds source has told Football Insider that the keeper's future at Elland Road is now in fresh doubt after he was told where he fits into the pecking order as the club prepare for their Premier League return.

Marcelo Bielsa is open to the experienced Spaniard staying at United and fighting for his position.

But Casilla may decide to quit the Yorkshire giants and join a club where he would be the first choice goalkeeper.

That would be unlikely to be in England, where he may fear his reputation has taken an irreparable hit following his ban.

Illan Meslier converted his loan move into a permanent £5million transfer last month after taking the number one jersey from Casilla.

The Frenchman, 20, started 10 of the last 11 matches of United's Championship-winning campaign.

He made a big impression as he conceded just four games as Bielsa's side cantered to the title.

But Casilla is likely to have still seen himself as the number one and confirmation of his now secondary status is a huge development.

Victor Orta has stated publicly how Casilla helped smooth Meslier's introduction into the first team.

The senior man has made 57 Leeds appearances, conceding 55 goals, since joining from Real Madrid in January of last year on a free transfer.

In other Leeds United news, the club are set to announce THREE new signings after bids accepted.

Leeds United