Arsenal’s goalkeeper overhaul hinges on free‑transfer Meslier

Arsenal are set to sign French goalkeeper Illan Meslier on a free transfer from Leeds United, with the 26‑year‑old completing his move pending a club medical. The deal follows the expiration of his contract at the end of last season, leaving him available without a fee.

James McNicholas of Athletic notes that Arsenal’s interest in Meslier forms part of a wider goalkeeper reshuffle at the club. The Gunners are looking to adjust their depth chart ahead of the new season.

McNicholas also points out that the signing would facilitate the loan departure of Tommy Setford. Removing Setford would free up a roster spot for the incoming Frenchman.

Current Arsenal goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga is attracting interest from clubs in Spain and Italy, with his £5 million release clause mirroring the fee paid to acquire him from Chelsea. The clause can be triggered, allowing Kepa to leave north London without further compensation.

The Meslier move was first reported on Tuesday by Luca Bendoni and Arsenal insider Hand, before Sami Mokbel of the BBC confirmed the club’s strong interest. Mokbel highlighted the uncertainty surrounding Kepa’s future as a factor in the pursuit.

Meslier made 215 appearances for Leeds before falling out of favour during the 2024/25 season. He was dropped to the bench in April and spent most of the 2025/26 campaign outside the matchday squad.

At Leeds, he was succeeded by Lucas Perri and later by Karl Darlow, who claimed the starting spot for the second half of the season. The transition left Meslier as the third‑choice keeper before his free transfer.

If Kepa departs, Meslier would step into the second‑choice role at the Gunners. If Kepa remains and Setford leaves, Meslier will compete with the Spaniard for the backup position.