Leeds United is facing a period of significant transition as a long-standing fixture prepares to depart Elland Road, while manager Daniel Farke grapples with a key injury ahead of a vital fixture.
Here is the latest update on the situation at Leeds:
The End of the Meslier Era
Illan Meslier, one of the final links to the Marcelo Bielsa era, is nearing a move to Turkish side Besiktas. After making 215 appearances for the club, the Frenchman has fallen to third-choice following the summer arrival of Lucas Perri.
- The Deal: Besiktas have reportedly fast-tracked negotiations and are offering a nominal fee to secure him before the Turkish transfer window closes on Friday, February 6.
- The Alternatives: Meslier was actually Besiktas’ third choice after they failed to land Lucas Perri (also from Leeds) and Chelsea’s Filip Jorgensen.
- Final Decision: The move now rests solely on Meslier’s personal agreement, which is expected within the next 48 hours.
Injury Update: Stach Sidelined
In a major blow for the upcoming “six-pointer” against Nottingham Forest, star midfielder Anton Stach has been ruled out. Stach has been a standout performer this season, but a hip injury is expected to keep him out for 10 to 14 days, meaning he will likely miss both the Forest and Chelsea fixtures.
Other Squad News:
- Jaka Bijol & James Justin: Both have returned to team training and are expected to be available.
- Dan James: Currently making progress toward a return.
- Lukas Nmecha: Unlikely to feature on Friday as he has yet to return to full training.
Transfer Whispers & Youth Recruitment
Despite the window closing, Leeds is already looking toward the summer and future-proofing the squad:
- Senegalese Target: Leeds is reportedly monitoring a Senegalese defender who was nearly signed by West Ham in January.
- Man Utd Prospect: The club successfully completed a deadline-day deal for a Manchester United academy talent, a move seen as a strategic long-term investment by the 49ers Enterprises.
- Strand Larsen Fallout: Debate continues regarding the club’s decision not to increase their bid for Jorgen Strand Larsen, with some analysts warning that the lack of a new striker could be a costly gamble.
