Besiktas targets Leeds United goalkeeper Illan Meslier as the Turkish club seeks reinforcements before their transfer window closes on Friday. The Istanbul outfit previously attempted to acquire Lucas Perri, another goalkeeper at the English club, but that bid was unsuccessful.
Earlier in February, Besiktas pursued Chelsea’s Filip Jorgensen, and while the Danish stopper showed interest in the opportunity, negotiations ultimately stalled. This rejection prompted the Turkish side to shift their attention toward alternative options within the goalkeeping market.
Meslier’s situation at Leeds has deteriorated significantly in recent months. Once the club’s primary goalkeeper under Marcelo Bielsa, the French keeper played a crucial role in establishing Leeds’ presence in English football’s top division. His status has now diminished considerably at Elland Road.
Currently occupying third position in the goalkeeping hierarchy at Leeds, Meslier sits behind Karl Darlow and Lucas Perri. The 25-year-old has appeared on the bench only five times this season, with his final inclusion in the matchday squad occurring on November 29 during a 3-2 defeat against Manchester City. His contract expires at season’s end, making a mid-season departure potentially attractive for all parties involved.
The experienced keeper brings substantial credentials to any potential move. Throughout his career, Meslier has made 261 competitive appearances and achieved two promotions with Leeds. Most notably, he secured the Championship’s Golden Glove award during the 2023-24 campaign by recording 19 clean sheets, demonstrating his capability at the highest level.
Leeds must consider their backup options carefully before sanctioning any departure. Losing Meslier would leave the club vulnerable if either Darlow or Perri sustains an injury during the remainder of the season. The club faces the challenge of balancing squad depth with allowing an underutilized player an opportunity to resume regular football elsewhere.
