Transfer talk: after seven years at Leeds, Meslier heads to Arsenal and the Premier League as third-choice keeper

Transfer talk: Meslier close to signing for Arsenal, a fresh start after seven years at Leeds

Illan Meslier is set for a fresh start at Arsenal. According to The Athletic, the 26-year-old keeper, who has been out of contract since leaving Leeds at the end of the season, is close to joining the Gunners. Meslier would arrive as the club’s third-choice goalkeeper behind David Raya and Kepa Arrizabalaga. His arrival would also open the door for 20-year-old Tommy Setford to go out on loan and get regular minutes next season. It is a free transfer for Arsenal, who strengthen their depth without spending a penny.

Meslier’s time at Leeds lasted seven seasons and 215 matches, including 107 in the Premier League. Signed on loan from Lorient in 2019, he quickly convinced the English club to make the deal permanent after a string of strong performances in the second half of the season as Leeds earned promotion to the Premier League. He then became the undisputed first-choice for several years before gradually coming under pressure from Karl Darlow, then spending a blank 2025-2026 campaign sharing duties with Darlow and former Lyon keeper Lucas Perri. A frustrating end to the chapter for a goalkeeper who had seen just about everything at Leeds.

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Arsenal bolster their goalkeeping ranks with a keeper who knows the Premier League

For Meslier, a move to Arsenal marks a major turning point after a difficult season without game time. At 26, joining a club of Arsenal’s stature, even as third choice, brings a proper platform and top-level training every day. The Frenchman knows the Premier League inside out after more than 100 appearances, a handy asset for a keeper expected to provide reliable cover when it matters.

Arsenal, who were crowned English champions last season, continue to shape the squad to stay at the top. Raya remains the clear No.1 between the posts, but depth in goal matters when you’re fighting on every front. Meslier brings experience and knowledge of the English game that this pecking order perhaps lacked. The deal is not official yet, but The Athletic say it is at an advanced stage.

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