Arsenal are on the verge of signing free agent Illan Meslier, with Kepa Arrizabalaga exploring his options and looking to leave the club after only one year. Meslier allowed his contract with Leeds to run down and is available on a free transfer this summer.
Meslier's Career at Leeds
The 26-year-old Frenchman spent six seasons at Elland Road and made a total of 215 appearances in all competitions for the club, while helping the side win two promotions to the Premier League in 2020 and 2025. Last term, though, Meslier found himself effectively frozen out by Daniel Farke, failing to make a single first-team appearance after dropping below both Lucas Perri and Karl Darlow in the pecking order.
Meslier's Last Appearance and Move to Arsenal
Meslier last featured for Leeds in the side’s 2-2 draw with Swansea way back in March 2025. According to The Athletic, Meslier will complete a move to Premier League champions pending a medical, which could see Tommy Setford depart the Premier League champions on a season-long loan deal. The 6 ft 7 in shot-stopper will likely be brought in as a back-up option to undisputed number one David Raya, with Kepa reportedly open to the prospect of leaving the Emirates this summer.
Kepa's Situation at Arsenal
Kepa is said to be actively pursuing a fresh challenge away from north London after making just one solitary Premier League appearance in his debut season with the Gunners last term.
Leeds United's Statement on Meslier
In an official statement last month, Leeds confirmed Meslier would be on the move while thanking the ‘keeper for his service. ‘Illan Meslier will leave the club this summer, upon the expiration of his contract at Elland Road,’ the statement read. ‘The goalkeeper played a big part in the club’s promotion winning campaigns to the Premier League in both 2019/20 and 2024/25 and departs as a two-time champion. ‘He will always be part of our proud history. ‘Throughout Meslier’s time in West Yorkshire, he has remained a strong team-mate and a constant competitor on the pitch. ‘Thank you, Illan, everyone at Leeds United wishes you all the best with your next steps and future career.’
Arsenal's Summer Transfer Plans
Meslier would become the first new face to join Arsenal this summer and several new recruits will be expected to follow him through the doors over the coming weeks. Piero Hincapie joined the Gunners on a permanent basis last month, with the north London outfit having exercised their option to sign the defender for £34.5 million following an initial loan deal.
