Arsenal are set to complete the signing of Illan Meslier on a free transfer, with an agreement in place and the deal now moving towards its final steps. The former Leeds United goalkeeper has not yet had his medical, but barring any issue, he will join Mikel Arteta’s squad as a low-risk addition with a very specific role.
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This is a squad move, plain and simple. Meslier, now 26, left Leeds at the end of last month after seven years at Elland Road. He did not play a single minute last season after dropping behind Lucas Perri and Karl Darlow under Daniel Farke. His last appearance came in March 2025, in a 2-2 Championship draw with Swansea.
Meslier transfer fits Arsenal squad plan
Arteta and goalkeeping coach Inaki Cana clearly believe there is value here. Meslier is expected to arrive as third-choice goalkeeper, offering cover and experience without forcing a major reshuffle. Arsenal see him as a useful squad option, not as somebody arriving to change the pecking order immediately.
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That also means this deal should not be read as a verdict on Kepa Arrizabalaga. The Spaniard remains the main rival to David Raya, and Meslier’s arrival does not alter that equation. Arsenal are adding depth, not reopening the battle for the number one shirt.
Tommy Setford loan move now more likely
The more relevant consequence concerns Tommy Setford. Arsenal are open to sending the 20-year-old out on loan this season, and Meslier’s signing gives them the room to do it properly. Setford has made only two senior appearances under Arteta, and regular first-team football elsewhere would do more for his development than another season on the fringes.
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It is a sensible chain of decisions. Secure an experienced third-choice keeper, then allow a young prospect to play.
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Meslier is likely to become Arsenal’s first new arrival of the summer, even after the club made Piero Hincapie’s move permanent…
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