Arsenal agree free transfer for Meslier with Setford set to leave on loan

Arsenal have agreed terms to sign former Leeds United goalkeeper Illan Meslier on a free transfer, according to The Athletic, with the deal marking the Premier League champions’ first incoming business of the summer window.

Meslier, 26, became available after his contract at Elland Road expired at the end of last month. He is still required to complete a medical before the move is formally confirmed, but the report indicates that arrangements have been finalised. Once he arrives at the Emirates, Meslier is expected to slot in behind first-choice David Raya and Kepa Arrizabalaga in Arsenal’s goalkeeping hierarchy.

The Frenchman made 215 appearances across six seasons at Leeds, including 107 in the Premier League. Despite that experience, he did not feature for the club’s first team at all last season, which ultimately led to the decision not to renew his deal.

The signing is also expected to have a knock-on effect within Arsenal’s squad. Goalkeeper Tommy Setford, 20, is reported to be in line for a loan departure once the Meslier transfer is completed. Setford has made just two appearances for Arteta’s senior side since joining from Ajax in the summer of 2024, the most recent of which came as a substitute in an FA Cup win over Wigan Athletic in February. A temporary move away would give him the regular first-team football he has so far been unable to access at Arsenal.

Beyond the goalkeeping situation, Arsenal’s summer activity is expected to extend considerably further. The Gunners have been strongly linked with Aston Villa midfielder Morgan Rogers and Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola, while Bournemouth forward Eli Junior Kroupi has also been mentioned as a potential target.

On the outgoing side, reports have emerged that Arsenal have reached a €20 million (£17.1m) agreement with Besiktas for winger Leandro Trossard, who is entering the final year of his contract at the club.