Arsenal have confirmed the signing of goalkeeper Illan Meslier following the expiry of his contract at Leeds United, with the Frenchman becoming the club’s latest addition ahead of the new Premier League season.
The 26-year-old arrives on a free transfer after seven seasons at Elland Road, where he made 215 appearances in all competitions and kept 70 clean sheets.
Meslier will wear the number 30 shirt and joins Mikel Arteta’s squad as Arsenal continue preparations for the defence of their Premier League title.
The move adds further experience and depth to the Gunners’ goalkeeping department alongside first-choice David Raya.
Meslier arrives with more than 100 Premier League appearances to his name after establishing himself as Leeds’ undisputed number one following the club’s promotion under Marcelo Bielsa in 2020.
He was widely regarded as one of Europe’s brightest young goalkeepers during his early years in England and played a key role in Leeds’ return to the top flight.
Although his form dipped in recent seasons, eventually leading to him losing his starting place under Daniel Farke, Arsenal have identified an opportunity to recruit an experienced goalkeeper without paying a transfer fee.
The move is also expected to create greater flexibility within the squad.
England Under-21 international Tommy Setford is now likely to head out on loan to gain valuable first-team experience after making two senior appearances for Arsenal last season.
Meslier expressed his delight after completing the switch to north London.
“I’m extremely happy,” he told Arsenal’s official website.
“It’s a great day for me because I have just joined the champions.”
“For me, Arsenal is the biggest club in England.”
The French goalkeeper also outlined his ambitions after arriving at the Emirates Stadium.
“I’m very happy and very proud to join Arsenal.”
“I cannot wait to show the love that I’ve got for this badge, and I cannot wait to win trophies with this team, because this is a club that needs to lift trophies again and again.”
Meslier began his professional career with French side Lorient before joining Leeds on loan in 2019.
His move was made permanent after helping Leeds secure promotion to the Premier League, and he went on to become one of the youngest regular goalkeepers in the division.
Arsenal believe the 26-year-old still has plenty to offer despite a difficult final period at Elland Road.
Goalkeeping coach Inaki Cana is expected to work closely with Meslier as the club aim to rebuild the confidence that once made him one of England’s most promising young keepers.
For Arsenal, the deal represents a low-risk addition that brings proven Premier League experience, strong competition in training and added depth as Arteta prepares his squad for another demanding campaign across four competitions.