Arsenal have completed the signing of French goalkeeper Illan Meslier from Leeds United on a free transfer, adding experienced Premier League depth at precisely zero cost. The 26-year-old completed his medical at Arsenal’s Sobha Realty training ground and put pen to paper around July 7-8, 2026.

The deal and what it looks like

Meslier left Leeds United at the expiration of his contract following the 2025-26 season. Arsenal moved quickly once his availability became clear, with the club’s interest formally surfacing around June 30, 2026.

The former France U21 international is expected to slot in as Arsenal’s third-choice goalkeeper, sitting behind first-choice David Raya and Kepa Arrizabalaga. Questions about Arrizabalaga’s future at the club reportedly played a role in Arsenal’s decision to pursue Meslier in the first place.

Meslier has been Leeds United’s primary goalkeeper since arriving from French club Lorient in 2019, accumulating significant top-flight experience along the way. Arsenal gets a proven Premier League keeper without spending a single pound in transfer fees.

The signing also opens a door for young goalkeeper Tommy Setford, who could now be loaned out to get first-team minutes elsewhere.