Real Madrid ‘eyes Leeds star Illan Meslier to replace Thibaut Courtois’…as Los Blancos continue to weigh their options – including David De Gea – with the Belgian stopper likely to miss the 2023/24 season with an ACL injury
Real Madrid are reportedly considering a move to sign Leeds goalkeeper Illan Meslier.
The Spanish giants are in the midst of a goalkeeping crisis after reports emerged that Thibaut Courtois is likely to miss all of the upcoming season following an ACL injury.
In the wake of the injury, the long-time number 1 of the club took to social media to thank fans for their support as he prepares for the recovery process.
“You never expect to experience something like this, but now it’s time to accept it and do everything you can to overcome it and come back even stronger,” Courtois tweeted Thursday.
“Thank you all for the energy, love and encouragement, I assure you they motivate me to recover as soon as possible.”
Illan Meslier has emerged as a potential transfer target for Real Madrid this summer
Reports emerge after Thibaut Courtois suffered an ACL injury likely to rule him out for the season
The former Chelsea goalkeeper confirmed the news of his injury in a social media post
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The availability of David De Gea as a free agent following his departure from Manchester United earlier this summer led to reports that Los Blancos were considering a move for the 32-year-old, eight years after the Spaniard was infamously moved to Bernabeu. .
However, according to a report from the Spanish publication Sportthe club are examining a number of possible replacements, including Leeds’ keeper Meslier.
The France youth international is regarded as one of the best young goalkeepers in the sport since joining Leeds on loan in 2019.
However, Meslier was one of the players who came under fire for their performances towards the end of last season as the club held the worst defensive record in the league.
On his arrival at Elland Road, Sam Allardyce replaced the 23-year-old, instead former Everton stopper Joel Robles started in each of his four Premier League games in charge of the club as he failed to avoid relegation.
With the departure of Robles to Saudi second division side Al Qadsiah FC this summer, Robles has resumed his role of number 1 for Leeds as Daniel Farke looks to lead the club back to the top flight at the first request.
David De Gea remains an option for Los Blancos, having joined Manchester United on a free transfer this summer
Carlo Ancelotti’s side kick off their campaign with Courtois deputy Andriy Lunin between the sticks
Long the recipient of comparisons to Courtois, the 6ft 7in Meslier is known for his combination of imposing physical attributes and his reflexes and technique.
The former Chelsea star’s understudy last season was Ukraine international Andriy Lunin, who enjoyed his most prolific campaign with Los Blancos last season, making seven league appearances and twelve in all competitions.
Lunin is expected to start as Ancelotti’s side begin their La Liga campaign against Athletic Club Bilbao on Saturday.