Arsenal have made enquiries over the availability of former Leeds United goalkeeper Illan Meslier as the club assess its options behind first-choice David Raya this summer.
The Gunners are expected to reshape their goalkeeping department ahead of the new season following uncertainty surrounding Kepa Arrizabalaga’s future.
Kepa joined Arsenal last summer to provide experienced competition for Raya and featured across domestic cup competitions during the club’s Premier League-winning campaign.
However, with his future yet to be resolved, Arsenal have begun exploring alternative options should they need to recruit another deputy goalkeeper.
Meslier has emerged as one of the names under consideration.
The 26-year-old is currently a free agent after his contract with Leeds United expired this summer.
Meslier spent five seasons at Elland Road, making more than 200 appearances and playing a key role during the club’s return to the Premier League.
Although he later lost his place in the starting line-up, the French goalkeeper remains highly regarded for his reflexes, distribution and experience despite still being only 26.
His availability on a free transfer makes him an attractive market opportunity for clubs seeking proven Premier League experience without paying a transfer fee.
Arsenal’s recruitment team are understood to have made initial enquiries as they evaluate whether Meslier would be the right fit to compete with Raya.
The club have prioritised building depth across every position after reclaiming the Premier League title and reaching the Champions League final last season.
Manager Mikel Arteta has repeatedly stressed the importance of maintaining fierce competition throughout his squad, including in goal.
Raya cemented his place as Arsenal’s undisputed first-choice goalkeeper during the title-winning campaign and is expected to retain that status heading into the 2026-27 season.
Any new arrival would therefore be expected to provide reliable cover rather than challenge immediately for the starting role.
Meslier’s profile appears to suit that requirement.
The Frenchman also has experience playing in possession-based systems, an important factor given Arteta’s demands on his goalkeepers when building attacks from the back.
Arsenal have already been active behind the scenes this summer, strengthening both their recruitment and medical departments while continuing to monitor several first-team targets.
Goalkeeper recruitment is now another area receiving attention.
No formal offer has yet been made for Meslier, and Arsenal continue to assess the market before deciding whether to proceed.
With pre-season approaching, the Gunners are keen to finalise their goalkeeping group early, and Meslier’s availability as a free agent could make him one of the most straightforward deals available if the club decide to move beyond Kepa.