Arsenal are reportedly set to sign former Leeds United goalkeeper Illan Meslier on a free transfer as questions continue to surround Kepa Arrizabalaga’s future at the Emirates.
Arsenal are closing in on the signing of Illan Meslier on a free transfer after the French goalkeeper left Leeds United at the end of his contract.
According to reports, Meslier’s arrival will pave the way for highly-rated goalkeeper Tommy Setford to leave on loan in search of regular first-team football as Arsenal continue to manage the development of their young talents.
The Gunners’ move for Meslier comes amid growing uncertainty surrounding the future of Kepa Arrizabalaga. The Spanish goalkeeper has attracted interest from clubs in both Spain and Italy after just one season in north London.
Kepa is understood to have a £5 million release clause in his Arsenal contract, the same amount the club paid to sign him from Chelsea. If that clause is activated, Arsenal are prepared for his departure and have already lined up a replacement.
🚨𝐁𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐊𝐈𝐍𝐆: Arsenal have agreed a deal to sign goalkeeper Illan Meslier following the expiration of his contract at Leeds United. ✅🧤
𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐬𝐢𝐠𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝟏𝟎! 🤔👇 pic.twitter.com/LF8r3BGD0J
— AFTV (@AFTVMedia) July 7, 2026
Interest in Meslier has been building over recent weeks.The 26-year-old became a familiar figure at Leeds United, making 215 appearances during his time at Elland Road. However, his fortunes changed dramatically over the last two seasons as he gradually lost his place in the starting lineup.
Meslier was first dropped to the bench in April 2025 before falling completely out of the squad for much of the 2025-26 campaign. Lucas Perri initially took over as Leeds’ first-choice goalkeeper before Karl Darlow eventually established himself as the club’s preferred option.
Should Kepa complete a move away from Arsenal, Meslier is expected to step in as the club’s second-choice goalkeeper behind David Raya. If Kepa remains at the Emirates, the Frenchman will battle the Spaniard for the backup role while providing Mikel Arteta with greater depth between the posts.
Kepa Arrizabalaga could leave Arsenal after one season. The goalkeeper has attracted interest from clubs in Italy and Spain, and can go if his £5m release clause is met. [@TheAthleticFC] pic.twitter.com/EYRzjWM5Pk
— DailyAFC (@DailyAFC) July 7, 2026
