Arsenal close to signing Meslier on a free transfer

Arsenal are on the verge of completing a deal for French goalkeeper Illan Meslier. According to transfer insider Fabrizio Romano, the 26-year-old will join the Gunners as a free agent after his contract with Leeds United expires this summer. Meslier and his representatives visited Arsenal’s training complex in Hertfordshire on Tuesday to finalise personal terms. The medical examination has already been carried out, leaving only the signing of the contract to be done. The Frenchman had fallen out of favour at Leeds — during the 2025/26 season he did not make a single senior competitive appearance, which paved the way for his departure. Initially, Meslier is expected to serve as the third-choice goalkeeper. David Raya remains the undisputed No. 1, with Kepa Arrizabalaga as his deputy. However, Arsenal’s hierarchy have growing doubts about Kepa’s future at the club beyond this season, which could quickly alter the pecking order.