"They're tempted...": Phil Hay drops big Leeds transfer hint that supporters will love - opinion

Phil Hay has dropped a big hint on one of Victor Orta’s potential Leeds United transfer targets this summer.

In a recent Q&A on The Athletic, the Leeds United correspondent revealed that there is an internal discussion currently ongoing at Elland Road regarding the signing of a more experienced backup option for first-choice goalkeeper Illan Meslier – with Orta believed to be tempted by the idea of a move for a new shot-stopper this summer.

In response to a question asking whether – following a shaky campaign between the sticks – the France U21 international could see his position as the Whites’ number one come under threat upon the signing of a new ‘keeper, Hay replied:

“No, Meslier wasn’t flawless but I think it’s absolutely the right decision to continue pushing him as the No 1.

“There is a discussion going on at Leeds at the moment about what to do with their goalkeeping ranks. They’re tempted to bring in a more experienced No 2, someone to sit behind Meslier and ahead of 21-year-old Kristoffer Klaesson. It’s something to keep an eye on.”

While it is undeniable that Meslier is a talent who boasts an incredible amount of potential for future development, the fact that Leeds shipped an enormous 79 goals in the Premier League last season – with only bottom of the table Norwich City conceding more – cannot be avoided.

And, while the 22-year-old is not solely to blame for the Whites’ extremely worrying defensive record in 2021/22, it would be a difficult argument to make that the signing of an experienced second choice goalkeeper would not be a sensible addition for Orta to make this summer.

Indeed, this would provide the £18m-rated Frenchman with much greater competition for his starting spot in Jesse Marsch’s side –