A released Leeds United goalkeeper could have another Premier League opportunity coming his way
Illan Meslier has been linked with a shock move back to the Premier League with Arsenal after being released by Leeds United.
The 26-year-old is free to seek pastures new following the end of a seven-year spell at Elland Road, during which he lifted the Championship title twice.
A former France youth international, Meslier was once considered among the Premier League’s most promising young talents. He was particulatly impressive during Leeds’ 2020/21 campaign, but struggles with form in recent years have sent his stock plummeting.
A parting of ways was confirmed at the end of the 2025/26 season, during which Meslier did not see a single minute of senior action.
Illan Meslier is reportedly of interest to Premier League champions Arsenal.placeholder image
Illan Meslier is reportedly of interest to Premier League champions Arsenal. | Stephen Pond/Getty Image & FRANCK FIFE / AFP via Getty Images
Illan Meslier attracts Arsenal ‘interest’
However, according to the BBC, the Frenchman has attracted strong interest from reigning Premier League champions Arsenal.
Kepa Arrizabalaga is currently David Raya’s understudy at the Emirates Stadium but there are supposedly doubts over his future in North London.
The Gunners are thought to be exploring the market for a replacement and it appears Meslier has cropped up on their radar.
Meslier had tumbled below Karl Darlow and Lucas Perri in the pecking order at Elland Road having found consistency hard to come by in his final years in West Yorkshire.
However, there is undeniably talent in the stopper who was once tipped to be a star for the France national team.
Illan Meslier’s Leeds United departure
After his Leeds exit was confirmed, Meslier said: “I just wanted to take a moment to send this farewell message to every single Leeds United fan. When I arrived at this club in 2019 as a 19-year-old kid, I had no idea what was ahead of me.
“What I found was a club like no other, a fanbase with a passion that is truly unmatched, and a place that has shaped me into the goalkeeper and the man I am today.
Illan Meslier spent seven years on the books at Leeds United.placeholder image
Illan Meslier spent seven years on the books at Leeds United. | Bruce Rollinson
“I would like to thank all the coaching staff, medical staff and players who have been part of this journey. And also the people at the stadium and the training ground who have been amazing with me from day one to the last day.
“After seven years, the time has come to take on a new challenge and step into a new chapter of my career. Leeds will never leave me. This city, this club, this shirt; it’s part of who I am now and always will be. Thank you for everything. Marching On Together, always.”
Meslier made a total of 215 appearances for Leeds.