The #LUFC Breakfast Debate (Monday 2nd June) Meslier urged to hide anger after being dropped
Good Morning. It's Monday 2nd June, and here are the latest headlines from Elland Road...
Meslier was urged to hide his anger after being dropped
Leeds shot-stopper Illan Meslier was advised by teammate Patrick Bamford to hide his anger after being dropped during the crucial Championship promotion run-in last season. The Frenchman's inconsistency led to him being benched by manager Daniel Farke for the final seven games as the Whites pushed for automatic promotion.
His decision came amidst increasing public criticism and speculation surrounding Meslier following several high-profile mistakes that cost the team points throughout the campaign. Up until that point, Farke had largely defended his number one publicly and privately. However, his last appearance came in the 2-2 draw at home against Swansea City.
Stepping in for the remainder of the season was Karl Darlow, who conceded just three goals in the subsequent seven fixtures, providing a solid base for the team, though to be fair he had very little to do. Patrick Bamford, who himself returned to the side for that same decisive period after another injury-hit season, revealed the conversation he had with Meslier about the situation. Speaking on Ben Foster's 'Fozcast' podcast, Bamford recounted telling the goalkeeper...
You’ve played how many games? You’ve done your bit, there are six games to go, you’re angry, don’t show it. If you’re are angry, hopefully we go up and you have eight weeks to just mull about it.
He suggested that Meslier handled the situation reasonably well, noting, "He actually did all right. After the Swansea game, Illan spoke and backed Karl, and said even if I’m dropped, I’m still here for everyone.” It has been reported that Meslier has given notice on the property he rents from Micah Richards, and is not expected to be at Leeds next season.
Whites lining up a bid for Pope
Rumours are circulating around Elland Road, suggesting Leeds are lining up a bid for Newcastle United goalkeeper, Nick Pope. The potential move comes as Newcastle are reportedly close to finalising a £30 million deal for Burnley's James Trafford, a move that would likely push Pope further down the pecking order at St James' Park.
He's a seasoned Premier League player with proven experience, attributes highly valued as Leeds prepare for the challenges of top-flight football, and a reasonable price tag. Multiple sources estimate Pope's market value to be in the £10 million to £15 million range.
This price bracket is well within Leeds United's reach, particularly following their recent promotion to the Premier League, which has significantly boosted their financial capabilities. Furthermore, the anticipated sale of Illan Meslier is expected to generate between £4 million and £5 million, further bolstering the transfer budget.
While Trafford's expected arrival at Newcastle intensifies competition for the goalkeeping spot, Pope represents a chance to secure a reliable and experienced Premier League goalkeeper at a reasonable price. Should Leeds United act decisively, they could well fend off probable competition that would arise from the availability of such a high quality keeper.
Mateo Joseph set to leave?
Spanish Under 21 International striker Mateo Joseph is keen to leave Elland Road this summer, and explore his options abroad attracting attention from clubs on the continent and prompting speculation about his future at Elland Road.
Interest in the Spanish youth international is reportedly high. French Ligue 1 side RC Strasbourg are particularly keen, with French media outlet L’Équipe claiming they are "hotly tipped" to test Leeds' resolve with a bid this summer. Joseph's potential has also caught the eye of several clubs in his native Spain. Real Betis, Getafe, and Girona are all understood to be eager to secure his services, potentially offering him a return to La Liga football.
This isn't the first time Joseph has been the subject of concrete transfer interest. Back in the January window, Leeds United knocked back a significant offer of £10 million from Real Betis. Whites officials were reluctant to sanction a departure for the striker at such short notice, especially given the bid arrived at the "11th hour" without sufficient time to bring in a replacement, leaving Daniel Farke's squad potentially short upfront.
Joseph featured in 1271 minutes of league football last season, contributing three goals and three assists. While showing glimpses of promise, this statistical return has led some to suggest that the young striker is "nowhere near ready" for the demands of consistent top-flight football just yet. This assessment, based on his output relative to minutes played, perhaps highlights why clubs are circling for a potential future asset rather than an immediate Premier League starter.
However, with the summer window offering more time for planning and potential squad adjustments at Elland Road, Leeds' stance on Joseph may have shifted. The concrete interest and the player's reported desire to move suggest that a sale is now firmly on the cards, provided a suitable offer meets Leeds' valuation. The clubs linked clearly see significant potential in the Spain U21 international, believing they can help him develop further.
Mateo Joseph's time at Leeds United looks increasingly set to conclude this summer. With interest intensifying from France and Spain, Elland Road is preparing for potential offers for the young forward as he looks to take the next step in his career away from West Yorkshire.