Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta reacts during a training session ahead of the UEFA Champions League 2026 final to be played at the Puskas Arena in Budapest, Hungary on May 29, 2026. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images) BUDAPEST, HUNGARY – MAY 29: Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta reacts during a training session ahead of the UEFA Champions League 2026 final to be held at the Puskas Arena in Budapest, Hungary on May 29, 2026. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
According to The Athletic, Arsenal have agreed to sign former Leeds United goalkeeper Illan Meslier on a free transfer.
The 26-year-old French goalkeeper is currently a free agent and could be a very useful option for Arsenal in cup competitions. Kepa decided to leave the club in order to play more often.
Download the official CaughtOffSide app to get all the latest news and updates straight to your phone. above apple & Google play
Ilan Meslier will struggle to play for Arsenal
The goalkeeper has struggled to get regular chances at Leeds United and it remains to be seen whether he can persuade Arsenal to give him more chances. It is extremely unlikely that he will start ahead of David Raya at the London club and it remains to be seen how the situation will develop.
It may be difficult to turn down the opportunity to play for a club like Arsenal, but the French goalkeeper needs regular chances at this stage of his career. Perhaps it would have been ideal for him to join a club where he would be their first-choice goalkeeper.
This is a smart move for Arsenal, allowing them to add further depth and quality to their goalkeeping department without spending a lot of money. The 26-year-old is unlikely to play often and it doesn’t make sense for Arsenal to spend a lot of money to add depth in that position. Signing the French goalkeeper on a free transfer will allow them to invest in other areas of the squad.
Want more catchoffside coverage? Add us Google recommended sources Add trusted news to your favorites list.
Arsenal need team depth
Arsenal won the Premier League last season but lost to PSG in the Champions League final. They will strengthen their squad this summer and aim to once again push towards the European Cup. Adding further depth and quality to the squad will be a priority for them.
We need to improve the quality of our offensive line this summer. The addition of an agile winger and reliable finisher could be a game-changer for them.
