Man Utd Eyes Illan Meslier to Challenge Onana for No. 1 Spot
Manchester United are reportedly reigniting their interest in Illan Meslier, the Leeds United goalkeeper, with plans to bring him in as competition for current No. 1 Andre Onana. This move signals the Red Devils' intention to add depth to their goalkeeper position, ensuring that Onana stays sharp while introducing a fresh challenger for the starting spot.
Meslier, who has been a consistent performer for Leeds, has long been seen as a promising talent. At just 24 years old, the French goalkeeper has already made over 240 professional appearances, impressing with his strong presence and shot-stopping ability. Standing at 6ft 5in, Meslier has shown significant potential, although his form has fluctuated recently, particularly following Leeds' relegation to the Championship. However, United’s goalkeeper scout, Tony Coton, continues to monitor his progress, and it’s clear that the club still sees him as a player for the future.
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Meslier has been in fine form this season, keeping 12 clean sheets in 22 Championship appearances, making him one of the top performers in the league. His performances have caught the eye of several clubs, with Manchester United now considering him as a possible signing. United's interest in Meslier comes as part of a broader search for a goalkeeper who could provide a serious challenge to Onana, who has been Manchester United's first-choice keeper since his summer arrival.
Onana’s position at Old Trafford is secure for now, but reports suggest that United’s management is keen to add another goalkeeper to push him further, with the aim of maintaining high standards within the squad. The club is also considering other options, including Botafogo’s John, and may even look to bring in a new keeper as soon as January, depending on the situation with current backup Altay Bayindir.
Bayindir, who arrived from Fenerbahce in the summer for £4.3 million, has struggled to impress in his limited appearances, particularly after a poor showing in the Carabao Cup against Spurs. His inconsistent performances have raised doubts about his future, and it is believed that United could offload him in January if there is sufficient interest. This would open the door for a potential move for Meslier or another goalkeeper to compete for the No. 2 spot.
Leeds, however, might not be eager to let Meslier go in the middle of the season, as they are fighting for promotion back to the Premier League. The goalkeeper is under contract until 2025, and with Leeds currently sitting in a strong position in the Championship, they are unlikely to sell him unless the right offer comes in. That being said, if Leeds fail to achieve promotion by the end of the season, Meslier could be more open to a move, and United may be able to pursue the deal in the summer.
United’s search for a goalkeeper is part of a broader strategy to strengthen their squad under manager Ruben Amorim. The team has had a mixed start to the season, and Amorim is looking to make strategic moves in the transfer market to reinforce key positions. While Onana has made some mistakes recently, including a few high-profile errors, his overall form this season has been solid, and United are not looking to sell him. Instead, they are focused on ensuring that he remains the club’s first choice while adding competition to improve the squad as a whole.
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