By Noel Whelan

4th Aug, 2021 | 4:00pm

Whelan names two Leeds stars who are 'delighted' after confirmed signing news

Illan Meslier and Elia Caprile will be “absolutely delighted” that fellow goalkeeper Kristoffer Klaesson has signed for Leeds United.

So says Leeds ambassador and ex-striker Noel Whelan, speaking exclusively to Football Insider after Klaesson’s capture was confirmed on 31st July.

This site first broke news two days earlier that Leeds had a bid worth £2million including add-ons for the 20-year-old accepted by Valerenga.

Meslier, 21, featured 35 times last term while Caprile, 20, is yet to make his first senior appearance for the club.

Whelan claimed that the competition between the three young goalkeepers will be welcomed by all.

He told Football Insider correspondent Adam Williams: “The good thing about it is that it’s young competition.

“Everyone is hungry for that spot and everyone is going to have to keep on their toes.

“There isn’t one player there who has loads more experience than the others. It’s a pretty level playing field when you look at the three of them.

“The other two will be delighted that he’s there to challenge them, absolutely delighted. When you get a set of young players, they drive each other on.

“You look at Meslier and the way he played last year and we know he’s number one.

“But everyone’s place is up for grabs. You’ve got to be at the top of your game.”

Klaesson racked up 57 senior appearances for Eliteserien side Valerenga.

The Norway Under-21 international is now contracted to Leeds until 2025.

In other news, pundit predicts Leeds United may sign new defender after double injury blow.