Arsenal are closing in on the free-transfer signing of Illan Meslier, the former Leeds United goalkeeper who was released at the end of the 2025-26 season.

The French goalkeeper is expected to slot in as Arsenal's third-choice option, a move that would free up 20-year-old Tommy Setford for a loan spell elsewhere.

Kepa's uncertain future

Kepa Arrizabalaga is currently set to remain as second choice behind first-choice David Raya, though questions linger over his long-term future at the club this summer.

Sky Sports News understands Kepa would be open to a move to become a starting goalkeeper if the right opportunity arose — but, as things stand, no concrete offers have materialised. He is under no pressure to leave yet, though a move that suits both his professional ambitions and his family's needs could tempt him.

Meslier's difficult final season at Elland Road

Meslier served as Leeds' undisputed first-choice goalkeeper for five years before losing his starting berth to Karl Darlow late in the 2024-25 Championship campaign — a season in which he made three errors that led directly to goals.

In his final year at Elland Road, he dropped to third in the pecking order behind Darlow and Lucas Perri, making no appearances for the first team whatsoever. Meslier had spent seven seasons in total at the club, including helping Leeds to promotion back to the Premier League.

Arsenal's opening Premier League fixtures

Arsenal's first five Premier League fixture times have been confirmed for the new campaign. They host Coventry on August 21 (live on Sky Sports, kick-off 8pm), before travelling to Aston Villa on August 31 (live on Sky Sports, kick-off 8pm). Chelsea then visit Arsenal on September 6 (live on Sky Sports, kick-off 4.30pm), followed by away trips to Sunderland on September 12 (kick-off 8pm) and Brighton on September 19 (kick-off 3pm).