Illan Meslier’s Future at Leeds United: A Crossroads Defined by Lucas Perri’s Arrival
As the summer transfer window rolls on, Leeds United’s preparations for another push at Premier League promotion have taken a decisive turn. The club’s acquisition of Brazilian goalkeeper Lucas Perri from Botafogo, in a £15.6 million move, marks a statement of serious intent. But as one door opens for a new shot-stopper, another may be quietly closing — or at least creaking — for Illan Meslier, the long-serving Frenchman who once looked destined to be one of Europe’s brightest young keepers.
The signing of Perri sends a clear message to both the dressing room and the fanbase: change is coming in the most vital area of the pitch. While Leeds haven’t officially placed Meslier on the transfer list, the writing appears to be on the wall. His future, which just a couple of years ago seemed filled with promise, now hangs in a delicate balance.
But is it really time for Meslier to move on? Or should Leeds and their supporters show more patience with a player who, despite recent struggles, is still just 25 — young for a goalkeeper by any standard?
Let’s dive deeper into the factors at play — from Meslier’s rise and fall, to tactical decisions, fan sentiment, financial implications, and the potential next steps for both player and club.
The Rise: Meslier’s Breakthrough and the Bielsa Years
When Illan Meslier first arrived at Elland Road in August 2019 on loan from FC Lorient, few expected him to become such a central figure so quickly. But injuries to Kiko Casilla and a string of standout performances under Marcelo Bielsa meant the then-teenager was soon thrown into the pressure cooker of a Premier League promotion race.
And he delivered.
Calm, composed, and confident beyond his years, Meslier slotted seamlessly into Bielsa’s high-risk, high-reward system. His ability to play out from the back — a non-negotiable under the Argentine — made him an ideal fit. When Leeds secured promotion in 2020, Meslier was soon made the permanent No. 1 and one of the youngest starting goalkeepers in the Premier League.
In Leeds’ first season back in the top flight, Meslier was statistically one of the busiest keepers in Europe, making more saves than almost any of his peers. Despite the pressure, he remained composed and made numerous game-saving interventions. Fans began to dream — was this the next Hugo Lloris?
The Decline: Form Dips and Costly Errors
Unfortunately, the heights of 2020/21 were not to last. The following season, as Leeds suffered through injuries, tactical instability, and managerial changes (with Bielsa departing in February 2022), Meslier’s form took a notable dip. Though still capable of jaw-dropping saves, he began to show signs of fragility — particularly in his decision-making and command of the box.
The 2022/23 campaign was perhaps his most difficult. With Jesse Marsch’s tenure faltering, Javi Gracia briefly taking over, and finally Sam Allardyce brought in as a last-ditch rescue effort, Leeds were relegated. Meslier, at the heart of the chaos, had a torrid time.
Repeatedly caught in no-man’s-land on crosses, hesitant off his line, and occasionally sloppy in distribution, he made high-profile mistakes that led directly to goals. Leeds conceded 78 goals in the Premier League that season — second only to Bournemouth. While blame couldn’t rest solely on Meslier, his role in that defensive collapse was undeniable.
A particularly damaging moment came in April 2023 when Meslier conceded 11 goals in back-to-back games against Crystal Palace and Liverpool. The confidence of both player and fans seemed to shatter.
He was eventually dropped by Allardyce for Joel Robles, casting major doubt over his long-term future at the club.
The Present: Leeds Back in the Championship, and a New Goalkeeper Signs
Leeds’ 2023/24 Championship campaign saw a more stable structure under Daniel Farke. While Meslier was restored as the starting keeper, his performances remained inconsistent. There were moments of brilliance — crucial saves against teams like Leicester and Southampton — but the same issues lingered.
He struggled with crosses, was often passive in crowded boxes, and committed multiple errors leading to goals. In high-pressure moments, particularly during the playoff final defeat to Southampton, he was again under the microscope.
Enter Lucas Perri. Signed from Botafogo, Perri is 26, slightly older, and seen by the coaching staff and recruitment team as a more mature, composed presence. Crucially, Perri is a commanding figure at 6’5”, known for his handling, box dominance, and ability to lead a back line. His attributes directly contrast with Meslier’s biggest weaknesses.
In short, Perri looks like the upgrade Leeds believe they need to secure promotion.
Fan Sentiment: A Divided Base
The Leeds United fanbase is torn — not so much over Perri’s arrival, but over what to do with Meslier.
Calls for a Fresh Start:
Many fans feel that Meslier has been given ample opportunity to prove himself and that he has fallen short. They argue that if Leeds are serious about promotion and long-term success, they cannot afford another season of uncertainty in goal.
“Six seasons, countless errors — how many more chances does he get?”
“A good goalkeeper wins you points. Meslier loses them.”
“We’ve seen enough. Perri in, and let’s move on.”
Support for Staying:
Others are more forgiving. Meslier is still only 25, has shown world-class potential, and could improve with the right coaching and less pressure. Many cite the words of club legend Eddie Gray, who publicly backed Meslier to become a top-level international in the coming years.
“Goalkeepers don’t mature until they’re 28 or 29,” said Gray.
“Meslier has all the tools — he just needs time and the right environment.”
Fans on social media echoed this:
@IanFenton: “Defo yes! I’m with Eddie Gray – he’ll be one of the best keepers in the world when he matures over the next five years.”
@EricLUFCSloane: “Yes, he can learn a lot from Perri.”
@lilolis4: “He deserves to be No. 2 if he stays. Let’s not throw him away.”
Others suggested a loan move could help rebuild his confidence and value.
Tactical Perspective: Why Perri Might Suit Leeds More Now
Daniel Farke’s tactical system is notably different from Bielsa’s or Marsch’s. While Farke does prefer keepers comfortable on the ball, he prioritizes defensive solidity, aerial strength, and experience — areas where Meslier often comes up short.
Perri, in contrast, has a more traditional skillset. He’s a commanding shot-stopper, strong in the air, and communicates clearly with his defenders. His signing aligns with Farke’s focus on controlling the game from the back and reducing self-inflicted errors.
This isn’t necessarily a rejection of Meslier’s style — but it does suggest that the tactical shift at Leeds may not favor him anymore.
What Happens Next: Scenarios for Meslier’s Future
As of late July, there has been interest from clubs in France, Germany, and Spain, but no concrete offers reported. Several possibilities remain:
- Permanent Transfer
If a decent offer comes in — likely north of £10 million — Leeds may opt to sell. Meslier’s wages are significant, and recouping some value could allow the club to strengthen in other areas.
- Loan Move
If the club believes in his long-term potential, a one-year loan to a Ligue 1 or Bundesliga side could provide Meslier with a fresh environment and less pressure. It may also help raise his market value.
- Stay as No. 2
The least likely — but not impossible — scenario is Meslier accepting a backup role. If he chooses to fight for his place, he could stay and act as competition for Perri. However, reports suggest Meslier does not want to sit on the bench, especially in a Championship campaign.
The Bigger Picture: Leeds, the 49ers, and Squad Evolution
The 49ers Enterprises have made it clear they are building for sustainable, long-term success. The recruitment this summer has been targeted and ambitious. Bringing in Perri is not a panic move — it’s part of a wider recalibration of the squad, including a new spine and more leadership across the pitch.
Keeping Meslier could be seen as a fallback plan or prudent squad depth. But if a new era is truly beginning, it may require parting with players symbolic of past instability.
The coming days and weeks will reveal how much faith the club still has in Illan Meslier — and how much faith he still has in Leeds.
Conclusion: A Career at a Crossroads
Illan Meslier’s time at Leeds United has been defined by dramatic highs and crushing lows. From teenager thrust into the spotlight to scapegoat during relegation, he’s experienced a full career’s worth of pressure before the age of