Leeds United set to sign one of the top 3 Goalkeepers in Ligue 1, as Daniel Farke make a shocking decision over Meslier.
Leeds United Prioritize Goalkeeper Signing as Meslier Exit Nears – Yahia Fofana Emerges as £8m Target
Leeds United are expected to make the signing of a new first-choice goalkeeper one of their top priorities during the summer transfer window, following manager Daniel Farke’s decision to bench Illan Meslier for the final seven matches of the 2024–25 Championship season.
Meslier, once considered a promising long-term option between the posts, appears to have fallen out of favour at Elland Road. According to well-connected journalist Phil Hay, the Frenchman’s time at Leeds is likely over, with the club actively offering him to various teams across Europe. The departure of Meslier would leave Leeds with just Karl Darlow in goal—an experienced option, but one who is widely viewed as a reliable back-up rather than a permanent solution for a promotion-chasing side.
In response, the club has already begun exploring potential replacements. Numerous goalkeepers have been linked, but their pursuit hasn’t been straightforward. Caoimhin Kelleher, a long-term target, ultimately turned down a move to West Yorkshire in favour of a Premier League opportunity with Thomas Frank’s Brentford. Following that setback, Leeds quickly turned their attention to Newcastle United’s Nick Pope.
However, hopes of luring Pope away from St. James’ Park have been dashed. Despite speculation surrounding his future, the England international is reportedly content at Newcastle and has no plans to leave the club this summer. With that avenue closed, Leeds have shifted focus again—this time to the French top flight.
Reports from Africa Foot now suggest that Leeds have registered serious interest in Yahia Fofana, the first-choice goalkeeper for both Ligue 1 side Angers and the Ivory Coast national team. Fofana, who was born in Paris but represents the West African nation internationally, has impressed scouts with his performances in France this past season.
Fofana played a crucial role in helping Angers avoid relegation from Ligue 1 in the 2024–25 campaign. The 24-year-old keeper featured in 33 league matches, keeping seven clean sheets and conceding 51 goals. While the raw numbers may not leap off the page, context is important—Angers finished the season just two points clear of the relegation zone, in 14th place out of 18 teams. Fofana’s contributions were viewed as instrumental in securing the club’s top-flight status.
With just one year remaining on his current contract, Angers are reportedly willing to cash in now to avoid losing him for free in the summer of 2026. They are said to be seeking around £8 million for their prized asset, a fee that could represent solid value for a club like Leeds, especially given Fofana’s age, international experience, and upside.
Leeds supporters remain divided on the current goalkeeping situation. While some believe Darlow has done enough to earn a shot as the club’s starter, many expect a new signing to take the gloves once the 2025–26 Premier League season kicks off—should Leeds secure promotion.
When comparing Fofana to Meslier, the latter may have better overall statistics, but the level of competition Fofana faced in Ligue 1, along with the pressure of battling relegation, paints a more complete picture. His consistent performances under difficult circumstances could make him a smart acquisition.
Leeds are unlikely to be alone in their interest. Newcastle United, among other clubs, are also said to be monitoring Fofana’s situation as they evaluate their goalkeeping depth with Pope’s long-term role still somewhat uncertain.
Ultimately, if Leeds can secure Fofana for the reported £8 million fee, it may prove to be a shrewd move in a competitive market—especially as they aim to rebuild for a potential return to the Premier League with a new, dependable figure in goal.