Leicester City are reportedly preparing a swoop for Leeds United goalkeeper Illan Meslier as they brace for the potential departure of Mads Hermansen to West Ham. The Foxes have identified the French shot-stopper as a prime replacement should Hermansen complete his move to the Premier League.
Sources indicate West Ham’s growing interest in Hermansen, who was a standout performer for Leicester last season. With the Hammers looking to bolster their goalkeeping department, Leicester are now weighing up options, and Meslier has emerged as the frontrunner.
And now, the pieces are falling into place.
Leeds United have just completed the signing of Brazilian goalkeeper Lucas Perri from Lyon in a deal worth £15.6 million, confirming the move on Saturday night after the 27-year-old passed his medical at the club’s pre-season camp in Germany.
Perri, who becomes Leeds’ seventh signing of the summer, is expected to take over as the club’s new No 1, effectively clearing the way for Meslier to leave Elland Road.
A club source stated: “With Meslier falling out of favour last season, the arrival of Lucas Perri was crucial in our preparation for top-flight football.”
The Brazilian gained attention last season with a jaw-dropping 50-metre throw for Lyon and made 45 appearances in all competitions, keeping 13 clean sheets. His signing signals Leeds’ confidence in moving forward without Meslier, whose departure now seems more likely than ever.
Meslier, still just 24, has long been admired for his reflexes and composure. With top-flight experience and proven ability under pressure, he fits the profile Leicester are seeking.
Should Hermansen exit for West Ham in the coming days, Leicester could make a formal offer for Meslier swiftly, now that Leeds have already secured his successor.
Stay tuned — this goalkeeper merry-go-round is just heating up.