Arsenal have confirmed the arrival of French goalkeeper Illan Meslier, signing the 26-year-old on a two-year deal following his release by Leeds United last week.

Meslier is set to fill the third-choice goalkeeper role at the club, bringing with him seven seasons of experience at Leeds United — during which he made 215 appearances across all competitions and kept 70 clean sheets.

From Lorient to the Premier League

The goalkeeper began his career in his hometown at FC Lorient, coming through the academy ranks before signing his first professional contract in February 2018. He made his senior debut that same year, keeping a clean sheet in a 1-0 Coupe de la Ligue victory over Valenciennes FC at just 18 years of age.

After a breakthrough 2018/19 campaign — in which he made 28 appearances in France's second tier — Meslier joined Leeds United on a season-long loan in August 2019. His Leeds debut came at Emirates Stadium in an FA Cup third-round tie in January 2020, a fitting venue for the start of his English chapter.

When Leeds won promotion to the Premier League at the end of that first season, his move was made permanent. He went on to make 107 top-flight appearances for the Yorkshire club, cementing his standing as a reliable presence between the posts.

Arsenal bolster their goalkeeping ranks

Arsenal's official statement welcomed Meslier warmly, noting that his "proven experience and quality" would further strengthen their goalkeeping options ahead of the new season.

Meslier will wear the number 30 shirt and is expected to link up with his new teammates at Sobha Realty Training Centre when the squad returns for pre-season. The transfer remains subject to the completion of regulatory processes.