Illan Meslier release clause demands shared amid Leeds United contract uncertainty

Illan Meslier wants a release clause inserted into his contract in case Leeds United are not promoted to the Premier League this season, according to Ben Jacobs.

The journalist reported via GiveMeSport [7 September] that the shot-stopper wants a clause that allows him to leave Elland Road should the Whites remain in the Championship for another season.

Although the 24-year-old’s current deal still runs until 2026, Meslier is looking to sign a new contract with the club that includes a release clause in case Leeds miss out on the Premier League again.

“The 49ers enterprise’s approach is very much that their hands have been a bit tied contractually, and anyone that they negotiate with, they want to try and remove that clause,” Jacobs said.

“But of course, from the player’s point of view, if you knew the clause existed for others, or you signed a new long-term deal, and I think this is particularly the case, from what I hear, with Meslier, that the player may want to protect themselves against the fact that if Leeds don’t go up, they’re stuck on a long-term deal, and maybe they feel their development is elsewhere. So it’s a balancing act.”

Illan Meslier demands release clause in Leeds United contract update

While Meslier has experienced a very mixed time in West Yorkshire, being dropped by Sam Allardyce arguably his lowest point in a Leeds shirt, he is definitely the No.1 choice now.

Daniel Farke rarely removes the Frenchman from the starting XI, and even with Karl Darlow and Alex Cairns as backup options, Meslier’s exit could be devastating.

The ‘keeper has racked up 170 appearances for the Whites since making his move to Elland Road permanently, joining during Marcelo Bielsa’s time at the club.

Although his time with Leeds has not been entirely faultless, making mistakes as a very young goalkeeper, it would be extremely difficult for Farke to find a like-for-like replacement.

With Leeds aiming for promotion to the Premier League at the second time of asking, missing out last season, Meslier’s demands are almost understandable, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t hurt – and it is a decision the club will have to think very carefully about.