Arsenal are very close to wrapping up a deal for goalkeeper Illan Meslier, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.
The move is at such an advanced stage that Romano posted on X to say the Frenchman had his “medical already done” on Tuesday, paving the way for the move to be sealed.
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Meslier is a free agent, having left Leeds United after his contract expired at the end of last month.
The 26-year-old will officially be brought in as the Gunners’ no.3 keeper, but he could soon be promoted to David Raya’s deputy.
Why is Meslier being signed?
There is a huge amount of uncertainty surrounding the future of current no.2: Kepa Arrizabalaga. There is reportedly a release clause in the Spaniard’s contract worth just £5m.
With the former Chelsea shot-stopper said to be looking for more first-team football, it is widely expected that a club will trigger the buyout fee before the transfer window closes.
For that reason, there was a need to bring in a new backup option, with Meslier seen as a logical choice, considering he was available on a free transfer.
Arsenal are set to step up their transfer plans
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Romano also said that he expects significant movement from the Premier League champions in the transfer market over the coming weeks.
It does like a concerted effort will be made to sign Morgan Rogers from Aston Villa. Finding an agreement over the transfer fee is expected to be the main stumbling block, with the Villans holding out for a British record £130m.
Romano does, however, say that discussions over personal terms between the Gunners and the England international are progressing well:
“The agreement with the player, from my understanding, is quite close. It’s something that Arsenal see as close. Not a problem”.