Leeds United are believed to be close to signing teenage goalkeeper Illan Meslier on a season long loan from Ligue 2 club FC Lorient.
The Whites are looking to sign a number two to provide the necessary competition for Kiko Casilla, following Bailey Peacock-Farrell's recent move to Burnley.
The teenager is due to undergo a medical at Thorp Arch on Wednesday, ahead of the Thursday 5pm transfer deadline.
The Frenchman has previously attracted interest from Chelsea and Monaco, so obviously has something that has impressed scouts.
So, what would Meslier bring to Leeds United? Here are all the facts you need to know.
Who is Meslier?
At only 19 years of age, Meslier has established himself as Lorient’s first choice goalkeeper, making thirty appearances in all competitions last campaign.
He made his debut at the beginning of last season, keeping a clean sheet in a 1-0 Coupe de la Ligue victory against Valenciennes.
Standing at 6’6, Meslier is a giant and would be a big presence in between the sticks - something which could be very beneficial in the Championship.
He has been capped for his country at youth level for the under-18s and 19s, and will now be looking to establish himself as the France Under-20s first choice after he shared goalkeeping duties with Alban Lafont in this summer's Under-20s World Cup.
How would he fit in at Leeds?
It is clear that Leeds were looking to add a goalkeeper as back up to first choice stopper Kiko Casilla, but also with the qualities to provide a sufficient standard of competition.
The fact Meslier is only 19 and has only had one season playing first team football, means he should be willing to be Casilla’s understudy whilst learning off Bielsa’s management. He can afford to do so at such an early stage of his career and should be richer for the experience.
His initial opportunities may well come in the Carabao and FA Cups, with Bielsa choosing to rotate in these competitions last season.
Leeds' first cup match is the trip to Salford City next Tuesday in front of the Sky Sports cameras. A perfect opportunity to impress, perhaps.
Would he suit the Championship?
While he may have a lack of experience, his physical attributes offer hope that he should not be overawed by the English second tier.
Set pieces are a pivotal part of Championship matches - corners, long throws, free kicks - and defences often look to their ‘keeper to clear out any danger. With Meslier’s size, he could be the perfect man to do so.
What has been said about him?
Lorient youth coach Stephane Le Garrec told Goal about some of his attributes last year.
“He’s a great kid. He’s pretty atypical compared to the young players we can get in academies, Illan is a quiet force.
“He’s a bit like Montpellier goalkeeper Benjamin Lecomte, who I trained. We felt he had real personality, he knew what he wanted.”
