Arsenal are set to complete the signing of former Leeds United goalkeeper Illan Meslier on a free transfer, with the Frenchman expected to undergo a medical before finalising his move to the Emirates Stadium, according to widespread reports.
The Frenchman became a free agent after his contract with Leeds United expired at the end of last season, bringing an end to a seven-year spell at Elland Road. ARSENAL have moved quickly to secure the goalkeeper’s signature, viewing the opportunity to add an experienced Premier League shot-stopper without paying a transfer fee as an attractive piece of business.
Meslier is expected to provide depth in Mikel Arteta’s goalkeeping department rather than challenge immediately for the No. 1 jersey. Reports suggest he will arrive as the club’s third-choice goalkeeper behind David Raya and Kepa Arrizabalaga.
The move represents a fresh start for Meslier after a difficult final year at Leeds. Once regarded as one of the Premier League’s brightest young goalkeepers, the French international made more than 200 appearances for the Yorkshire club and played a key role in two promotion-winning campaigns.
However, he fell down the pecking order following Leeds’ return to the Premier League and did not feature during the 2025-26 campaign after the arrivals of Lucas Perri and the resurgence of Karl Darlow.
Despite his lack of recent game time, ARSENAL believe Meslier’s age, top-flight experience and availability on a free transfer make him a low-risk addition to their squad ahead of another demanding season competing on multiple fronts. His arrival would also strengthen Arteta’s options between the posts without significantly impacting the club’s transfer budget.
The transfer is expected to be completed once Meslier successfully passes his medical and final contractual details are signed. Arsenal have yet to officially announce the deal, but reports indicate the agreement is in its final stages and confirmation could arrive in the coming days.
If completed, Meslier would become Arsenal’s latest addition of the summer as the Premier League champions continue to strengthen their squad ahead of the new campaign.
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