Illan Meslier becomes Arsenal's first summer signing

Arsenal have completed the signing of goalkeeper Illan Meslier on a free transfer, the club officially announced. The Frenchman becomes the Gunners' first arrival of the 2026 summer window. According to the BBC, the 26-year-old has put pen to paper on a two-year deal with an option for a third. Meslier spent the last seven seasons at Leeds United, where he racked up 215 appearances, conceding 286 goals and keeping 70 clean sheets. But the 2024/25 campaign was a difficult one for Meslier. Leeds boss Daniel Farke dropped him from the first-team picture due to inconsistent form. The goalkeeper ended up featuring in only two U-21 matches, letting in six goals. Meslier's arrival is expected to pave the way for fellow Arsenal shot-stopper Tommy Setford to head out on loan. The move gives the north London club some flexibility between the posts.