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Arsenal Sign Illan Meslier on a Free Transfer

The 26-year-old would add depth behind David Raya after leaving Leeds United when his contract expired in June.

  • Arsenal is set to sign former Leeds United goalkeeper Illan Meslier on a free transfer after the 26-year-old's seven-year association with the Whites ended when his contract expired last month.
  • Meslier lost his starting spot at Leeds to Karl Darlow in 2025 following a series of blunders, then Lucas Perri demoted him further, leaving him without a single appearance last season under manager Daniel Farke.
  • Manager Mikel Arteta and goalkeeping coach Inaki Cana view Meslier as a depth option, likely serving as third choice behind David Raya, potentially opening the door for England youth international Tommy Setford to head out on loan.
  • Signing the Frenchman on a free transfer allows Arsenal to invest in other squad areas, while his arrival could facilitate the exit of Kepa Arrizabalaga, who has decided to leave to secure more regular playing time.
  • Arsenal remains focused on broader squad improvements, including pursuing midfielder Morgan Rogers despite Aston Villa's £130million demand, while Leandro Trossard's departure stays on hold with the 31-year-old maintaining "full focus on England" during the World Cup.
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Yorkshire Evening Post broke the news in Leeds, United Kingdom on Tuesday, July 7, 2026.
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