Leeds United Chat • The #LUFC Breakfast Debate (Wednesday 28th December) Premier League heavyweights fight it out over Meslier
Good Morning. It's Wednesday 28th December, and here are the latest headlines from Elland Road…
Premier League heavyweights fight it out over Meslier
Manchester Utd and Chelsea are locked in battle for the signature of Illan Meslier, according to multiple media reports. The 22yo shot-stopper has been in fine form recently. Stats suggest he is the 7th busiest keeper in the top flight this season, making an average of 3.1 saves per game, and has also kept two clean this season (14 games).
Should either club make an official offer, Leeds have the upper hand. Meslier has four more years left on his contract, suggesting any potential suitor will have to pay top dollar for the Frenchman. Recently, Bayern Munich contacted Yvon Pauliquen (Meslier's agent) to explore the possibility of a deal; only to be told that Meslier's preference is to stay in England. Whether that be at Leeds or elsewhere, we'll have to wait and see.
Fulham could terminate Dan James loan agreement
Fulham could terminate Dan James' season long loan agreement, as they go in search of further domestic deals next month. James joined Fulham on loan on deadline day, but has failed to secure regular first team football. He has been restricted to cameo roles, and has become surplus to requirements at Craven Cottage.
Fulham currently have two players, they have taken on loan this season - Dan James and Shane Duffy of Brighton. It is believed that should his loan be terminated, they would still need to honour their payments to Leeds until the end of the season.
It was widely speculated that Fulham had an obligation to buy the Welsh International, but Elland Road journalist Phil Hay believes these rumours are far off the mark. With his price tag dropping quicker than a Conservative Party popularity contest, should Leeds look to offload the £25m reject next month (should his loan be cancelled) or keep him as an impact sub?
Leeds eye Wan-Bissaka deal
Media reports are suggesting that Leeds are eyeing a move for Manchester Utd full-back Aaron Wan-Bissaka next month. It is understood that Bissaka has dropped down the pecking order at Old Trafford, and will be made available during the January sales. This season, he has made two appearances, one of which was from the substitutes bench.
The former England U21 defender was signed from Crystal Palace for a whopping £50m back in 2019, but has failed to live up to expectation. Wolves, West Ham United and former club Crystal Palace have also shown an interest in the 25yo.