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PSG legend urges AC Milan to avoid Leeds United keeper as January decision looms
Photo by Jean Catuffe/Getty Images

Christophe Jallet says Guillaume Restes is the safer option as Serie A giants assess targets

Leeds United may be stuck in the relegation zone, but that hasn’t stopped major European clubs from scouting their squad ahead of the January window. Inter Milan and AC Milan have both shown interest in Illan Meslier as they search for a long-term goalkeeper solution. Yet the Frenchman, now third choice behind Lucas Perri and Karl Darlow, has received a clear warning from a prominent voice in French football.

Former PSG defender Christophe Jallet has publicly advised AC Milan against signing Meslier — instead backing another Ligue 1 star as the better option.


Photo by James Gill – Danehouse/Getty Images

Jallet says AC Milan should avoid Meslier and choose Restes

Speaking to Milan News, Jallet compared Meslier with Toulouse’s Guillaume Restes, another keeper on Milan’s radar. He highlighted Meslier’s frame and inconsistency while emphasising Restes’ physicality and reliability. “Meslier is leaner and more skinny, Restes is more powerful,” Jallet said. “It’s difficult to choose, but I’d go with Guillaume because he gives me more confidence.”

Given Daniel Farke’s own hesitation to rely on Meslier this season, Jallet’s assessment mirrors concerns already visible at Leeds. The 25-year-old has lost his starting spot and struggled for confidence — hardly ideal conditions for a move to a club of Milan’s stature.

Leeds still expected to find buyers for Meslier in January

Even if AC Milan cool their interest, Meslier remains an attractive option for several clubs. With his contract expiring this summer, Leeds may be open to a cut-price January sale to avoid losing him for free. Strasbourg are monitoring him closely and could move early to beat competition ahead of his free-agency window.

Anderlecht and Celtic are also keeping tabs, with both clubs interested in securing a low-cost goalkeeper with top-flight experience. For Leeds, that means there is still a strong chance of offloading Meslier this winter — even if Jallet’s comments sway Milan away from the deal.

The message from France is clear: AC Milan should prioritise Restes. But Meslier’s market isn’t drying up anytime soon.

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

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