Illan Meslier is expected to join Arsenal as a free agent after leaving Leeds United, though the North London club has yet to confirm the move officially.
The 26-year-old became a free agent on 1 July following the expiry of his contract at Elland Road. According to The Athletic, he is poised to sign for Mikel Arteta’s side and assume a supporting role in the goalkeeping department.
Goalkeeping Hierarchy
Reports indicate that Meslier would arrive as Arsenal’s third-choice goalkeeper. This development would allow Tommy Setford to depart on loan, with the 20-year-old expected to seek regular first-team football elsewhere in the coming weeks.
David Raya, 30, and Kepa Arrizabalaga, 31, currently occupy the top two positions in Arteta’s squad. The addition of Meslier would provide experienced cover without disrupting the established order between the posts.
Leeds United Departure
Meslier’s exit from Leeds marks the end of a six-year association with the West Yorkshire club. He initially joined the Championship side on loan from FC Lorient in 2019 before the transfer was made permanent, establishing himself as a regular starter through the academy graduate’s early career.
During his tenure at Elland Road, the Frenchman made 215 appearances, keeping 70 clean sheets and conceding 286 goals. However, his status as undisputed first choice ended during the 2024-25 season when manager Daniel Farke demoted him to the substitute bench.
Meslier featured only sparingly after March 2025, prompting his decision to pursue opportunities elsewhere upon the expiry of his contract. The former Lorient trainee now faces a significant shift in his career trajectory, trading regular Championship football for a squad role in the Premier League.