Chelsea target Illan Meslier has said that he won’t be moving to Stamford Bridge only to sit on the bench.
The Leeds shot-stopper said this in reaction to transfer rumours linking him with the Premier League giants this summer.
Chelsea want to strengthen their goalkeeping department this summer after underwhelming performances from first-choice shot-stoppers Edouard Mendy and Kepa Arrizabalaga last season.
A couple of goalkeepers have thus been linked with the Blues this summer, including the likes of Andre Onana and Mike Maignan of both Inter Milan and AC Milan respectively.
Another name believed to be on the west London side’s transfer list for goalkeepers is 23-year-old Leeds United shot-stopper Meslier.
The Frenchman is widely regarded as one of the most-promising goalies in Europe at the moment.
Meslier, who is currently on international assignment with the French U-21 team revealed that he is not certain about his future at Leeds United.
When quizzed about links to Chelsea, he revealed that he would only make a move to the west London giants if he wouldn’t be on the bench.
In his words during an interview with RMC, he said, “It is complicated when you’re in such a situation. We no longer have a coach, our club is being purchased by the 49ers group – there are lots of unknowns. For now, I have a contract until 2026.
“Officially, I still belong to Leeds. I will have to think about what could be the best project, be that at Leeds or another club.
“If it is to go and be on the bench, I’m not interested in that. If it’s to be the number one, of course, you can’t say ‘I’m not interested in Chelsea.’ I’d prefer to go to a less reputable club where I’ll have more game time than a top European club where I’d sit on the bench.”
