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By SIMON JONES and LUKE POWER, SPORTS REPORTER Published: 23: 38 AEDT, 3 February 2026 | Updated: 23: 38 AEDT, 3 February 2026 View comments Leeds United goalkeeper Illan Meslier has emerged as a target for Besiktas. The Turkish transfer window remains open until Friday and Besiktas have been exploring options - having had an approach for one of Leeds' other keepers Lucas Perri rejected last week. Chelsea's Filip Jorgensen was a target for the Black Eagles at the start of the month and the Dane was understood to be open to the move but talks failed to develop. They therefore turn to Meslier, who has endured a fall from grace at Elland Road. The Frenchman was a revered number one under Marcelo Bielsa, playing a key role as Leeds established themselves in the Premier League. He was the first choice custodian for five years vbut has not played a minute this season and is now third in the pecking order behind Karl Darlow and Perri. Besiktas are interested in signing Illan Meslier, who has fallen down the pecking order at Leeds Meslier has made the Leeds bench just five times so far this season, with his last appearance in their matchday squad coming on November 29 as they lost 3-2 to Manchester City. The 25-year-old is out of contract in the summer so an offer now could appeal. However, Leeds will be mindful of ensuring cover is available should Darlow or Perri pick up an injury. Meslier would bring a good level of experience to Turkey, having amassed 261 appearances throughout his career. He has two promotions on his CV with his Yorkshire employers and won the Championship's Golden Glove in 2023-24 after keeping 19 clean sheets. If he joins Besiktas, he will link up with former Leicester City midfielder Wilfrid Ndidi, Nottingham Forest loanee Jota Silva, and Yasin Ozcan, who is on loan from Aston Villa.
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