MUFC could repeat Ferdinand masterclass as Ten Hag eyes move for “ridiculous” £50m gem

Manchester United is reportedly interested in signing Leeds United prodigy Illan Meslier, having already been connected with the Frenchman during the summer transfer window.

What exactly is the word?
According to Media Foot, the Red Devils and Premier League rivals Chelsea are both interested in signing the 22-year-old in 2023, with the youngster expected to leave Elland Road in the near future.

This comes after prior rumors in the recent window stated the Old Trafford team was interested in the former Lorient wonder, despite journalist Fabrizio Romano claiming at the time that the player was regarded as “untouchable” by the Whites.

Despite the fact that the 6 foot 6 menace has three and a half years left on his current agreement in Yorkshire, this latest story from France says that a move could be on the cards next year, with Jesse Marsch and co reportedly eyeing Croatian star Dominik Livakovic as a replacement.

Rep Ferdinand’s masterclass.
A new goalkeeper remains a major priority for Erik ten Hag, with current number one David De Gea facing an uncertain future at the club with only six months remaining on his contract, but with the potential of triggering a 12-month extension.

If the club is seeking for a replacement for the Spaniard, who is apparently willing to take a salary cut to stay at the Theatre of Dreams, Meslier could be a viable option, with the towering stopper having shone in English football in recent years.

The “crazy” talent, as characterized by The Athletic’s Phil Hay, made the most saves in the division last season (143), helping his current team to safety, after coming fourth in that measure the year before with 140 saves.

Signed for £5 million in the summer of 2020, the £22k-per-week ace – who has started 14 league games this season – is now valued at roughly £50 million, according to Phil Hay of The Athletic, with such an attractive asset unlikely to come cheap for Ten Hag and co.

Although acquiring the France U21 international from their bitter rivals may prove contentious, United could replicate their success after signing club great Rio Ferdinand from Leeds in 2002.

That £30 million swoops proved to be a real masterstroke for the Red Devils, as the Englishman went on to enjoy a sparkling 12-year tenure in Manchester, making 455 appearances across all competitions.

During his more than decade-long tenure at Old Trafford, the 81-cap titan helped the club win six league titles and the Champions League, among other significant trophies, and was even crowned the Premier League’s best-ever defender by Liverpool star, Virgil van Dijk.

Ten Hag might now attempt to replicate his transfer masterpiece by luring Meslier away from Elland Road in the near future, with the youthful stopper, like Ferdinand, potentially becoming a long-term option for the club.