Former Manchester United striker Louis Saha has compared Leeds United goalkeeper Illan Meslier to Real Madrid star Thibaut Courtois amid the Frenchman's links with a move to Old Trafford.
Erik ten Hag's side are reportedly keeping tabs on Meslier as a possible long-term replacement for David de Gea. At just 22 years old, the Leeds man has plenty of potential and looks to have caught the eye of the Whites' bitter rivals.
Meslier has made 72 saves this term in goal for Leeds - the sixth-highest of any top-flight goalkeeper - and kept five clean sheets in the process. The former Lorient man has also completed more passes (600) than the likes of Arsenal's Aaron Ramsdale (574) and Tottenham Hotspur's Hugo Lloris (528) this season.
ALSO READ: Chelsea's major issue can give Leeds United hope for Premier League clash
Yet Saha believes that Meslier needs to work on becoming more comfortable with the ball at his feet, as he compared him to former Chelsea and current Real Madrid star Courtois.
“He could be," Saha told Betfred when asked about the possibility of Meslier becoming the new No.1 at Old Trafford. "He’s a good goalkeeper, with a lot of talent and his profile reminds me of Thibaut Courtois. He’s a tall lad and even though he may need to improve his passing range, he’s decent with the ball and he’s good on his line.
"The number one spot at Manchester United comes with a lot more pressure than it does at Leeds United or Lorient, so it all depends on whether he has the right mentality to take on that spot in Manchester United’s team. He’s a big talent but there’s a long way to go for him.”
READ NEXT:
Leeds United player ratings as Georginio Rutter impresses in unlucky Fulham defeat
Leeds United wastefulness punished as FA Cup run is ended by Fulham at Craven Cottage
Jermaine Beckford feels Leeds United's FA Cup defeat to Fulham 'sums up their season'
Leeds United supporters send 'shooting boots' message as Whites exit FA Cup in Fulham loss
Javi Gracia must address Leeds United's major issue in front of goal made evident in Fulham defeat
