Celtic Eye Leeds’ Illan Meslier as Schmeichel Replacement

Key Points

• Leeds United have clarified their transfer stance on goalkeeper Illan Meslier amid reported interest from Celtic.
• Celtic are believed to view Meslier as a potential long-term replacement for Danish veteran Kasper Schmeichel.
• Daniel Farke, manager of Leeds United, described Meslier as in the “unbelievable category”, suggesting he remains pivotal to the club’s plans.
• Meslier has fallen to third choice at Leeds United but continues to attract attention from European clubs.
• Schmeichel has faced criticism for inconsistent performances at Celtic Park this season.
• Reports from TeamTalk indicate that Celtic could make a move for Meslier either in January or next summer.
• Leeds United are currently relying on Lucas Perri as first-choice goalkeeper, with Karl Darlow as back-up.
• Despite speculation, Leeds insist they are not under pressure to sell Meslier mid-season.

Why are Celtic reportedly interested in Illan Meslier?

As reported earlier this month by TeamTalk, Celtic are “keen on signing” Meslier as a possible replacement for Kasper Schmeichel. The Danish veteran, who joined Celtic in the summer, has come under scrutiny from fans and analysts following several unconvincing performances during the first half of the Scottish Premiership season.

According to TeamTalk, the Parkhead side have identified Meslier as a “long-term solution” between the posts, with the 25-year-old’s experience in English football making him an attractive option. Meslier has made over 200 senior appearances for Leeds United since joining from FC Lorient, including two full Premier League campaigns.

TeamTalk’s transfer report explained that Celtic “remain keen” on the Leeds goalkeeper “as a possible option for next summer,” but could accelerate their interest depending on Schmeichel’s form over the festive period.

How has Meslier’s situation changed at Leeds United?

Meslier’s position at Elland Road has shifted following a busy summer transfer window. As outlined by LeedsLive journalist Beren Cross, Daniel Farke reorganised his goalkeeping department in August by signing Brazilian shot-stopper Lucas Perri from Botafogo. Perri quickly established himself as the number one, while Karl Darlow continued to serve as deputy.

That reshuffle relegated Meslier to third choice—a surprising turn given his track record as a reliable starter in previous seasons. However, Farke offered strong words of praise for the player’s professionalism and potential, signalling that a move in January is far from certain.

Speaking to reporters after Leeds’ recent league fixture, as quoted by Yorkshire Evening Post correspondent Graham Smyth, Farke stated:

“Illan is an unbelievable goalkeeper with top-class quality. He’s still very young, but already with tremendous experience. For us, to have someone like that in our squad is a big strength.”

What has Daniel Farke said about a potential transfer?

When asked directly about rumours of Meslier attracting interest from Celtic and Italian side Inter Milan, Farke was firm in his response. As reported by Yorkshire Evening Post, Farke emphasised that Leeds United’s priority is to maintain squad depth during a crucial promotion push.

“We don’t comment on speculation, but I’m very happy with the goalkeepers we have,” Farke told journalists. “Illan remains a player I highly value. We’ve no intention to lose important players mid-season unless there is a very, very strong reason.”

This statement effectively cooled talk of an immediate transfer, placing the ball firmly in Celtic’s court should they wish to test Leeds’ resolve with an offer.

What is Celtic’s plan regarding Kasper Schmeichel?

Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has publicly supported Kasper Schmeichel but acknowledged the scrutiny the goalkeeper faces. As reported by Daily Record football writer Ryan McKnight, Rodgers described Schmeichel as “a leader” in the dressing room but admitted that “some performances haven’t been where we want them to be.”

The Daily Record also noted that Celtic’s recruitment department, led by Mark Lawwell, has been actively scouting goalkeeping options ahead of the January window. The club’s focus on Meslier, according to their sources, comes from his mix of top-flight experience and age profile aligning with Celtic’s long-term goals.

An internal source quoted by Daily Record claimed:

“The club appreciates what Schmeichel brings, but it’s also realistic about planning for the next few years. A keeper like Meslier fits that next-generation profile.”

Could Leeds United sell Meslier in the January transfer window?

Leeds United’s stance appears firm. With Farke’s side pushing for promotion to the Premier League after narrowly missing out last season, the club is said to see Meslier as a valuable squad member, even if not currently starting.

LeedsLive suggested that Leeds would only consider offers exceeding £15 million, reflecting the goalkeeper’s Premier League-level credentials and contract length, which still runs until 2026. The publication added that while Leeds are not “actively shopping” Meslier, they would listen to “serious” offers in line with their financial model.

From the Yorkshire side’s perspective, the January market is seen as too risky to disrupt their stability. Selling Meslier without securing an immediate replacement would leave the club exposed in case of injury to either Perri or Darlow.

How have fans and pundits reacted to the rumours?

Fan reaction has been mixed. Some Leeds supporters believe Meslier deserves more game time or a fresh start at a club like Celtic, given his contributions during Leeds’ Premier League spell. Others argue that keeping him ensures healthy competition and strengthens the squad.

Celtic supporters, meanwhile, are divided over whether Meslier’s signing would mark an upgrade on Schmeichel or simply add another layer of uncertainty. Football pundit Tam McManus, speaking on BBC Sportsound, said:

“Meslier would be an interesting signing for Celtic. He’s young and has proven himself under pressure, but it depends on whether Leeds are realistic about their valuation.”

What’s next for Meslier, Leeds and Celtic?

All current reporting suggests that while Celtic’s interest is genuine, an immediate move may be unlikely. TeamTalk reiterated that Celtic’s preference is to reassess the situation in the summer unless Schmeichel’s form dips further or an affordable opportunity emerges.

For Leeds United, retaining depth across key positions, including goalkeeper, remains central to Farke’s approach. The German manager’s admiration for Meslier indicates that the Frenchman’s time at Elland Road isn’t over yet.

Should Celtic revisit their interest later in 2025, both clubs could explore negotiations, especially if Leeds achieve promotion, potentially reshaping their budgetary priorities.

As things stand, however, the message from Leeds United is clear: Illan Meslier is not for sale—at least not this winter.