Arsenal close in on free transfer of Illan Meslier

Arsenal are poised to make their first signing of the summer, finalizing a deal to bring in former Leeds United goalkeeper Illan Meslier on a free transfer. The 26-year-old Frenchman, who left Leeds upon the expiration of his contract last month, is expected to undergo a medical before joining the Premier League champions.

Meslier’s arrival is anticipated to facilitate a loan departure for Arsenal’s young goalkeeper Tommy Setford, who is seeking more first-team experience. The move would see Meslier slot into the squad as a backup option behind undisputed number one David Raya. The future of fellow goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga, who made just one Premier League appearance last season, remains uncertain, with reports indicating he is exploring options to leave the club.

Meslier’s departure from Leeds concludes a seven-year association during which he made 215 appearances and was a key part of two promotion-winning campaigns, in 2020 and 2025. However, he fell out of favor under manager Daniel Farke last season, failing to make a single first-team appearance after being displaced by Karl Darlow and later Lucas Perri. His final match for Leeds was a 2-2 draw with Swansea City in...