​Arsenal are closing in on the free-transfer signing of goalkeeper Illan Meslier, with the Frenchman having reached an agreement with the Premier League champions. He was photographed at the club’s Hertfordshire training base on Tuesday to finalise the details and undergo a medical, according to The Athletic. Meslier’s availability stems from a tough recent period in which he lost his place as Leeds United’s number one and was released when his contract expired this summer. That breach of status left the 26-year-old free to move, and Arsenal moved quickly to take advantage, though he arrives with genuine pedigree.
Meslier has built a substantial track record, making more than 200 appearances across seven years at Elland Road. He spent five seasons as Leeds’ first-choice goalkeeper and played a key role in helping the club secure promotion from the Championship. A dip in form during the 2024-25 season ultimately cost him his starting role, but his arrival at Arsenal is aimed at addressing a specific squad need that the club have identified.
Arsenal wanted to bolster their goalkeeping options with an experienced third stopper, and Meslier fits the profile perfectly. The signing aligns with the low-cost, high-value approach favoured by sporting director Andrea Berta. If everything proceeds as planned, Meslier will slot in behind the established duo of David Raya and Kepa Arrizabalaga.
There had been speculation about Kepa’s future, with talk of a move for regular football, but recent reports have suggested he is more likely to stay put. Should Kepa depart, Meslier could be promoted to a more advanced role, serving as a natural understudy to Raya and capable of deputising in cup competitions or stepping in if Raya is unavailable through injury.
The move also has a potential bonus for a promising youngster. Meslier’s arrival is expected to free up Tommy Setford to leave on loan, enabling the England Under-21 goalkeeper to gain valuable senior minutes elsewhere and continue his development away from the senior squad.
For Meslier, the transfer represents an opportunity to revive a career that has endured a chastening final year at Leeds. At 26, he has ample time to rebuild his reputation, potentially thriving in a supporting role behind one of the world’s best keepers in Raya, while remaining ready to seize chances if called upon by Arsenal in competitive action or cup ties.