Leeds United could be about to bid farewell to one of Daniel Farke‘s players before the weekend’s action, amid reports that he’s in talks to seal a last-minute departure.
Farke remains coy on Leeds’ January business
There were certainly plenty of rumours around Leeds’ January business this winter but, in the end, only one of those rumours came to fruition when Facundo Buonanotte finally arrived.
The Argentine’s arrival has been a long-time coming at Elland Road after Leeds were pipped to the post by Chelsea in the summer. Now, Farke’s got his man at long last and can set his sights on finishing what his side have started by achieving promotion.
Whether the German can be pleased with the transfer window as a whole is still up for debate. Reports suggested that there was interest in Harry Wilson and Jorgen Strand Larsen, only for the Welshman to stay put at Fulham and the latter to join Crystal Palace instead.
If Farke was unhappy, then he chose to keep his cards close to his chest. When questioned on Leeds’ business earlier this week, he told reporters: “I won’t speak too much about the thoughts I have shared with the board or what I’d have liked to have been added to the squad.
“That’s because it would make no sense in order to lead my group and give them confidence, if I were to cry right now for another winger or whatever or another striker or another centre-back.
Not just DCL: Leeds have a Strand Larsen upgrade who’s Farke’s “best finisher”
Jorgen Strand Larsen has gone elsewhere, but all is not lost for Leeds United.
“My general understanding of my role is I’ve signed a contract here in order to serve, but for me, it’s important that we are all together. It’s not like the manager is against the board. If you want to be successful at a club, the key people need to stick together and be on the same page and discuss options.”
Farke may yet have one more piece of business to discuss too, amid rumours that one Leeds player could be heading for a last-minute departure.
Illan Meslier in talks to seal Besiktas move
That player is, of course, Illan Meslier. According to Football Insider, Meslier is in talks to join Besiktas ahead of tonight’s deadline in Turkey. The Leeds goalkeeper is the third-choice option at Elland Road these days and has just six months left on his current deal – making this the last chance for the Whites to cash in.
Following talks earlier this week, it remains to be seen whether the move will be finalised, but transfer reporter Pete O’Rourke certainly believes it’s possible.
He told Football Insider: “I think it’s a possibility that something could happen with Meslier and a move to Turkey.
“Besiktas are obviously in the market for a goalkeeper. They did look at his teammate Perri, but Leeds rebuffed those overtures, so they’re obviously still looking for a keeper and Meslier is available.”
It’s worth noting that Meslier is still just 25 years old and, for all of his shortcomings, still has the chance to realise his potential away from Elland Road.
