Meslier turns down 1st choice offer to sign for Arsenal

The former Leeds United goalkeeper has completed his medical and signed his contract, with his arrival expected to be announced imminently.

Illan Meslier turned down the chance to become Birmingham’s number one in order to sign for Arsenal, where he arrives as cover rather than first choice.

The move is expected to be made official imminently.

Birmingham are understood to have offered Meslier an immediate starting role, but could not match Arsenal’s terms.

The former Leeds United goalkeeper has instead chosen a free transfer to north London after leaving Leeds at the end of his contract in June.

Meslier has completed his medical and signed his contract ahead of confirmation of the move.

James McNicholas of The Athletic reported on Tuesday that Arsenal were set to sign him on a free transfer, before Sami Mokbel of the BBC said Meslier was at London Colney to finalise the move and undergo a medical.

Fabrizio Romano has since reported that Meslier has completed his medical and signed his contract, agreeing to join Arsenal as a free agent.

The 26-year-old is expected to arrive as third choice behind David Raya and Kepa Arrizabalaga, although that could change if Kepa leaves.

The Spaniard is considering offers and can leave Arsenal for £5million, with clubs in Spain and Italy reportedly interested.

That leaves Meslier with a possible route to becoming second choice. Tommy Setford is also expected to leave on loan, creating room in the goalkeeping group.

Meslier made 215 appearances for Leeds and was a regular starter for a long spell, but his place was no longer secure by the end of his time at the club.

He dropped to the bench in April 2025, then was left out of the squad completely for much of 2025/26. Leeds preferred Lucas Perri at the start of the season before Karl Darlow took the starting place in the second half of the campaign.

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