David Seaman wants Illan Meslier at Leeds next season

Add as preferred source on Google

David Seaman has told Leeds Live that he wants Illan Meslier to play for Leeds United next season, as the goalkeeper continues to win plaudits for his performances after replacing Kiko Casilla between the sticks.

Meslier, 20, joined Leeds on a loan-to-buy deal from Lorient last summer and has since acted as Casilla’s number two. He eventually made his debut for the Whites in January, as Leeds suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat to Arsenal in the FA Cup.

Now, with Casilla banned for eight matches, Meslier has replaced the former Spain international once again. He has kept two clean sheets in his two Championship appearances as Leeds continue to lead the Championship with nine games left.

The Mirror claims Leeds will sign Meslier on a permanent basis for a fee of £6million, if the Whites gain promotion to the Premier League. Asked about Meslier, ex-Leeds goalkeeper and Arsenal legend Seaman wants Meslier at Leeds next term.

“I was at the Arsenal game,” Seaman said. “I don’t go to many games, but obviously Leeds playing at Arsenal was perfect so I was there. I was impressed with him. He looks confident, which for someone so young was good to see.

“I think so,” Seaman said, when asked if Meslier and Casilla is enough for the Premier League. “With the competition and them pushing each other, I think that’ll be good for Leeds. If they do get promotion it’ll be a big test for them.”

TBR’s view – Meslier is a bargain at £6m

Certainly, he has got enormous re-sale value. Though he has played just three times for Leeds, the chances of him remaining as the club’s number-one stopper looks high – even when Casilla’s ban ends.

Despite his age and form between the sticks, a fee of just £6million is an absolute bargain – and a deal Leeds must agree to pay, even if the Whites somehow fail to gain promotion.