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Arsenal set to sign Illan Meslier from Leeds on a free transfer; medical underway as the club secures the goalkeeper ahead of the season.
What happened: Illan Meslier is set to join Arsenal from Leeds on a free transfer after being out of contract this summer, the club confirmed at their Hertfordshire training centre on Tuesday.
Details: Meslier and his representatives attended Arsenal’s training centre to complete the final details of the move and to undergo a medical. The 26-year-old goalkeeper lost his place as Leeds’ number one and became available when his contract expired.
Squad role: As things stand, Meslier will arrive as Arsenal’s third-choice goalkeeper behind David Raya and Kepa Arrizabalaga. His position in the pecking order could change if Kepa departs the club before the new season.
Club context: Arsenal had explored the market for a replacement amid uncertainty over Kepa’s future. The Gunners initially drew attention to Meslier following a BBC Sport report on 30 June.
Related moves: Meslier’s arrival is expected to trigger a loan move for teenage goalkeeper Tommy Setford this summer, providing him with first-team playing opportunities elsewhere.
Timing and source: The agreement was reached after Arsenal’s interest was first revealed on 30 June, with the formalities and medical taking place on Tuesday at the club’s facilities.
Outcome: Meslier joins Arsenal on a free transfer and will integrate into the squad while his role may be reassessed depending on any further goalkeeper departures.