Arsenal have strengthened their goalkeeping department by signing French goalkeeper Illan Meslier on a free transfer following his departure from Leeds United. The move gives Mikel Arteta additional competition in goal as the Premier League champions prepare for the 2026-27 campaign.

Arsenal confirmed on Thursday that former Leeds United goalkeeper Illan Meslier has joined the club on a free transfer. The 26-year-old arrives after spending seven seasons at Leeds, where he made 215 appearances across all competitions and recorded 70 clean sheets.

Speaking after completing the move, Meslier expressed his excitement about joining the North London club.

"I'm very happy and very proud to join Arsenal. I cannot wait to show the love that I've got for this badge, and I cannot wait to win trophies with this team because this is a club that needs to lift trophies again and again," he said.

The French goalkeeper began his professional career at Lorient before joining Leeds on loan in 2019. He played a key role in helping the Yorkshire club earn promotion to the Premier League and later made 107 league appearances before leaving at the end of last season.

Meslier is expected to compete with Premier League Golden Glove winner David Raya for the starting position. He will wear the No. 30 shirt and join Arsenal's pre-season preparations ahead of their opening league fixture against newly promoted Coventry City on August 21.