Leeds United’s Illan Meslier isn’t good enough to take up the mantle of Chelsea’s number one goalkeeper this summer. That’s the opinion of former England and Blues defender Glen Johnson, who doesn’t see the sense in his former club making a move for the Frenchman, who lost his place in the Leeds line-up last month.
Meslier started last season well for the Whites and his strong performances saw him linked to a number of clubs at the top end of the Premier League table. His confidence and form deserted him over the second half of the season, though, and his reputation as one of Europe’s brightest young goalkeepers has been damaged as a result.
There has been speculation regarding where Meslier might be plying his trade come the new season, with Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur being two of the clubs linked by the national press. Whether he makes the move or stays at Elland Road remains to be seen, but the 23-year-old has taken the opportunity to publicly underline his desire to play regular football next season.
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Johnson doesn’t believe Meslier will get that should he make the move to Stamford Bridge and he has cast doubt on whether Chelsea should push to sign him at all.
“I don’t believe he’s good enough to be Chelsea’s number one currently,” Johnson told Betfred. “Not at all.
“If he goes to Chelsea this summer, then I believe he will be the club’s number two. I don’t see that deal happening at all, unless both Édouard Mendy and Kepa Arrizabalaga both left.”
Meslier has already spent three seasons between the sticks at Elland Road and with his contract running until 2026, the Whites may well be keen to see him stay in West Yorkshire and help them win promotion back to the Premier League.
