Arsenal have reportedly agreed a deal to sign goalkeeper Illan Meslier this summer.
Mikel Arteta’s side are expected to strengthen several areas of the squad ahead of the 2026/27 season, with a new left winger among the club’s top priorities.
However, recent reports have also suggested Arsenal are in the market for another goalkeeper, with Kepa Arrizabalaga’s future at the Emirates remaining uncertain.
The 31-year-old Spaniard is believed to be seeking a new challenge where he can compete for a starting spot.
Kepa has recently been linked with clubs in both Italy and Spain.
With his future up in the air, Arsenal have been exploring potential replacements.
Now, it appears they have found one.
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Arsenal closing in on first summer signing
According to The Athletic’s James McNicholas, Arsenal have agreed a deal to sign former Leeds United goalkeeper Illan Meslier.
The Frenchman became a free agent after leaving Leeds last week.
The Gunners are understood to have reached an agreement for the 26-year-old, with only a medical remaining before the transfer can be completed.
Meslier is expected to initially join Arsenal as the club’s third-choice goalkeeper behind David Raya and Kepa Arrizabalaga.
However, if Kepa leaves this summer, Meslier could be promoted to Raya’s understudy.
Meanwhile, current third-choice goalkeeper Tommy Setford is expected to leave on loan once Meslier’s arrival is officially confirmed.
What happens next?
Arsenal are set to step up their plans as the summer transfer window now officially open, with the club continuing to hold internal discussions over potential targets. Mikel Arteta and Andrea Berta are both believed to be actively assessing several options as preparations for next season continue behind the scenes.
The Gunners are expected to be among the busiest Premier League clubs this summer, with several positions under review. Any move will ultimately depend on availability, financial conditions and how Arsenal prioritise their targets during the transfer window.
The bigger picture
Arsenal’s recruitment team continues to focus on players who fit the club’s long-term strategy under Mikel Arteta. Technical quality, tactical intelligence and versatility remain key attributes as the club assesses potential additions ahead of the new campaign.
The club has consistently looked to add players capable of improving both the starting XI and overall squad depth, particularly with the demands of competing in the Premier League and Champions League. Arsenal are expected to strengthen multiple areas of the squad this summer and continue to monitor opportunities across Europe and South America.
Arsenal are expected to make several important decisions regarding the composition of the squad this summer. While strengthening key areas remains a priority, the club could also consider offers for certain players if it helps fund new arrivals and maintain financial flexibility.
Securing the futures of key players remains just as important as making new signings. Arsenal have worked hard to build one of the strongest squads in Europe, and maintaining stability within the group will be crucial as the club looks to continue competing for major honours.
Our View
If the reports are accurate, this would appear to be a move that raises more questions than answers among the Arsenal fanbase. The club are expected to strengthen this area of the squad during the summer, but the player’s profile does not really align with the type of goalkeeper recruitment strategy Mikel Arteta has favoured in recent years.
Whether Meslier could prove his doubters wrong remains to be seen, but it is definitely a potential deal that will divide the Arsenal supporters.
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