Arsenal have officially announced the signing of Illan Meslier on a free transfer following the expiration of his contract with Leeds United, the club confirmed on Tuesday. The French goalkeeper, 26, had been heavily linked with a move to the Gunners in recent days and has signed a contract of undisclosed length with the reigning Premier League champions.
Meslier found himself behind both veteran Welsh goalkeeper Karl Darlow, 35, and Lucas Perri in the pecking order at Leeds, and experienced a largely inactive season as a result. His departure from Elland Road brings an end to a seven-year spell with the club, during which he made 215 appearances and kept 70 clean sheets.
Having progressed through the youth ranks at Lorient before joining Leeds in 2019, Meslier quickly established himself as a key player for the Whites, playing a vital role in their promotion back to the Premier League. He also represented France at various youth levels, earning 13 caps for the under-21 side. However, following Leeds’ relegation last season, his future at the club became uncertain.
Upon signing, Meslier expressed his delight, stating he is “extremely happy” to have joined the champions and is “impatient to win trophies with this team, because it’s a club that has to win trophies again and again.” He is expected to initially serve as a third-choice goalkeeper at the Emirates Stadium, providing cover and competition for David Raya and Kepa Arrizabalaga.
The move represents a shrewd acquisition for Arsenal, adding a promising young goalkeeper to their squad without incurring a transfer fee. It also provides Meslier with the opportunity to compete at the highest level and potentially develop further under the guidance of Mikel Arteta, as Arsenal look to build on their recent success.
