Arsenal have announced the signing of French goalkeeper Illan Meslier on a two-year deal following his departure from Leeds United last week. The 26-year-old shot-stopper is expected to provide valuable depth to the club's goalkeeping options ahead of the upcoming campaign, having spent seven seasons in Yorkshire.
Official Confirmation and Career Highlights
The club officially confirmed his arrival on Thursday through a statement on their website, highlighting his extensive experience in English football. The statement read: “We can confirm the arrival of experienced goalkeeper Illan Meslier to the club. 26-year-old Illan joins us following seven seasons with Leeds United, during which time he made 215 appearances in all competitions, keeping 70 clean sheets. Illan began his career in his hometown with French side FC Lorient, progressing through the club’s academy before signing his first professional contract in February 2018. The commanding goalkeeper made his senior debut later that year, keeping a clean sheet in a 1-0 Coupe de la Ligue victory over Valenciennes FC at just 18 years of age.”
Journey from France to England
The club's statement went on to detail the goalkeeper's career progression, including his initial breakthrough in French football and his eventual move to England. “After an impressive breakthrough campaign, making 28 appearances in France’s second tier during the 2018/19 season, Illan joined then-Championship side Leeds United on a season-long loan in August 2019. He made his Leeds debut at Emirates Stadium in an FA Cup third-round tie in January 2020. Following Leeds’ promotion to the Premier League at the conclusion of his first season in English football, Illan’s move was made permanent. Since then, he has made 107 top-flight appearances, and arrives with proven experience and quality, further strengthening our goalkeeping options ahead of the new season.”
Squad Integration and Shirt Number
The statement concluded by noting that Meslier will wear the number 30 shirt for the club and will integrate with his new teammates at the Sobha Realty Training Centre for pre-season training, pending the final completion of standard regulatory processes. Meslier's arrival adds a seasoned Premier League goalkeeper to Arsenal's squad, having accumulated over 100 top-flight appearances during his time at Leeds. His experience is expected to bolster the team's defensive options as they prepare for the new season.
