Leeds United are actively assessing their goalkeeping options ahead of the 2025/26 season, as concerns over their current number one, Illan Meslier, continue to mount. The French shot-stopper has endured a difficult and error-prone campaign, with several high-profile mistakes costing Leeds crucial points in their bid for automatic promotion to the Premier League. While the club still recognizes Meslier’s raw talent and long-term potential, the reality is that Leeds cannot afford to persist with a goalkeeper whose errors have undermined their promotion push. If Leeds secure a return to the top flight, a more dependable and consistent option between the posts may be required to handle the higher level of competition and greater attacking threats posed by Premier League opposition.

Leeds Set Their Sights on Chelsea Goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic

As part of their search for a new goalkeeper, reports suggest that Leeds United are considering a move for Chelsea’s Djordje Petrovic. According to TEAMtalk (April 2), Leeds are monitoring the Serbian international, who has been on loan at RC Strasbourg in Ligue 1 this season. Petrovic, who initially joined Chelsea from MLS club New England Revolution in 2023, was loaned out last summer following a goalkeeping reshuffle at Stamford Bridge. The arrivals of Robert Sanchez from Brighton and Filip Jorgensen from Villarreal saw Petrovic pushed down the pecking order, prompting Chelsea to send him to their affiliated club in France for regular first-team action.

Despite his loan spell at Strasbourg, Chelsea’s goalkeeping situation remains unclear, which could work in Leeds’ favor. Enzo Maresca, who will oversee Chelsea’s pre-season preparations, is expected to reassess his goalkeeping options before making a final decision on Petrovic’s future. Both Sanchez and Jorgensen have been unconvincing, failing to fully convince Chelsea’s coaching staff that they are long-term solutions for the number one spot. Additionally, Chelsea will also welcome back Mike Penders, an 18-year-old highly-rated prospect, which will further complicate the club’s goalkeeping hierarchy.

Given this uncertainty, there is a possibility that Petrovic could find himself surplus to requirements at Chelsea. If that happens, Leeds might have a realistic opportunity to secure his services, either on a season-long loan or a permanent transfer.

Is Petrovic an Upgrade on Meslier?

While Leeds once viewed Meslier as a long-term solution, the patience of both the coaching staff and the fans is now wearing thin. Meslier has struggled with decision-making, shot-stopping consistency, and command of his penalty area, leading to repeated errors that have cost Leeds valuable points. His performances have been particularly scrutinized in high-pressure games, where his lapses in concentration have led to avoidable goals.

Petrovic, on the other hand, has significantly more experience in high-pressure situations despite being the same age as Meslier. The Serbian goalkeeper has impressed during his loan spell at Strasbourg, where he has showcased his quick reflexes, strong shot-stopping ability, and ability to organize his defense effectively. Before moving to Chelsea, he was widely regarded as one of the best goalkeepers in Major League Soccer, earning praise for his consistency and composure under pressure.

During the 2023/24 season, Petrovic found himself as Chelsea’s first-choice goalkeeper in the second half of the campaign following Kepa Arrizabalaga’s departure and Robert Sanchez’s injury. He made 31 appearances across all competitions, demonstrating his ability to perform at the highest level despite Chelsea’s defensive struggles. His performances, though not always flawless, earned him praise for his agility, reaction saves, and confidence in one-on-one situations. However, due to Chelsea’s frequent managerial changes and defensive instability, he was never given a proper chance to establish himself as their long-term number one.

For Leeds, securing a goalkeeper with Petrovic’s experience and composure could prove to be an astute move, particularly if they return to the Premier League. With Meslier’s confidence seemingly shattered and a growing sense among the fanbase that a change is needed, bringing in a more Premier League-ready option could provide much-needed stability at the back.

How Likely is a Leeds Move for Petrovic?

The feasibility of this transfer depends entirely on Chelsea’s summer squad assessment. If Maresca decides to retain Petrovic as part of his first-team squad, then Leeds’ chances of signing him—whether permanently or on loan—would diminish significantly. However, if Petrovic remains third-choice or lower in the pecking order, Chelsea might be open to negotiating a deal, especially given their need to balance Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations through player sales.

Leeds may also face competition from other clubs, particularly from Premier League sides or European teams looking for an affordable but experienced goalkeeper. Given his solid performances in Ligue 1, French clubs may also express interest if Chelsea makes him available. However, Leeds could present an attractive opportunity for Petrovic, particularly if they return to the Premier League, where he would have a guaranteed starting role rather than serving as a backup elsewhere.

If Leeds fail to secure Petrovic, they will likely continue their search for a goalkeeping alternative, as it is evident that Meslier’s position as an undisputed starter is no longer secure.

What’s Next for Leeds and Their Goalkeeping Conundrum?

Leeds United’s goalkeeping situation is one of the most pressing issues that needs to be addressed before the 2025/26 season. Whether they choose to persist with Meslier, bring in direct competition for him, or replace him entirely, the decision will play a crucial role in shaping the club’s ambitions moving forward.

If Meslier stays, he must work on cutting out errors and regaining the confidence of both the coaching staff and supporters.

If Petrovic joins, he would likely be expected to immediately take over as first-choice, providing a more stable presence in goal.

If Leeds are unable to sign Petrovic, they will need to explore other alternatives, potentially looking at experienced free agents or Premier League outcasts seeking regular football.

Ultimately, Leeds United cannot afford to ignore the goalkeeping situation if they want to be competitive at the highest level. Promotion to the Premier League would demand a goalkeeper who is consistent, confident, and reliable—qualities that Petrovic has displayed throughout his career so far. Whether Leeds can successfully convince Chelsea to part ways with him remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: a goalkeeping change may be necessary for Leeds to take the next step forward.