Journalist James Marshment believes signing Ben Foster should be a no-brainer for Leeds this summer.
Illan Meslier is very much the number one at Elland Road but did come under scrutiny at times last season not least when Leeds were in peril towards the end of the campaign.
Journalist Graham Smyth called him out for a ‘dreadful error’ in the lead-up to Arsenal’s first goal in a 2-1 defeat that the Whites suffered back in May but adding competition could see the young French goalkeeper’s game develop.
According to the Yorkshire Evening Post (via MOT Leeds News), the club may look to terminate Kiko Casilla’s contract a year early after he spent last season on loan at Elche. However, Sky Sports News reporter Tim Thornoton said earlier this month that signing a goalkeeper isn’t a priority but the club have been linked with a move for Foster who is now a free agent upon the expiry of his Watford contract and Marshment feels it would be a ‘great’ signing.
Speaking on the Just Joe Football Show he said:
“It’s just a no-brainer for Leeds. Free agent, 39, I know it’s quite old, but it doesn’t matter when you’re a ‘keeper.
“He’s happy to play backup. He’s great for morale, he’s a really, really nice guy from all the things I’ve heard about him.
“He’s great for the dressing room and he’d just be one of those players who can keep Meslier on his toes, first of all, but secondly, he can put that arm around him.
“If the worst came to the worst and Meslier did get an injury, we’ve got a quality, experienced ‘keeper there to come in.”
TIF Thoughts on Foster and Leeds…
Has Illan Meslier been good enough for Leeds this season?
Yes
No
Credited with the most saves in Premier League (1,248) signing a keeper with the experience of Foster makes total sense, especially when it won’t cost them a penny.
He has made 390 Premier League appearances and is even a two-time top-flight winner while last term he showcased his ability to still perform at this level racking up 27 appearances with the Hornets.
Furthermore, having earned £30k-per-week on his previous contract he wouldn’t be out of Leeds’ reach when it comes to their wage budget and it is a wonder the club haven’t already looked to close out a deal.
Signing Foster makes perfect sense which is why I have no belief we will do it. This will no doubt turn into yet another one of those ”we were gonna sign him but then we decided to buy a cheap nobody instead” stories. Are any 3rd division, one armed, part time goalkeepers from Rapid Lichtenstein available?