Arsenal have confirmed the first signing of what is expected to be a busy summer transfer window.
Having turned Piero Hincapie’s loan spell into a permanent deal, goalkeeper Illan Meslier becomes the first new face through the door this summer.
Meslier is expected to compete with both David Raya and Kepa Arrizabalaga for minutes, which will allow young keeper Tommy Setford to go out on loan.
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.
Swapping Yorkshire for north London 🖋️ pic.twitter.com/O6HVtiV5b3
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) July 9, 2026
Meslier said: "I’m extremely happy. It's a great day for me because I have just joined the champions. For me, Arsenal is the biggest club in England.
“I'm very happy and very proud to join Arsenal. I cannot wait to show the love that I've got for this badge, and I cannot wait to win trophies with this team, becuase this is a club that needs to lift trophies again and again."
Meslier has been handed the no30 shirt.
Mikel Arteta is reshaping his squad ahead of the defence of Arsenal’s Premier League title win, as the club look to begin an era of dominance both in England and Europe.
Morgan Rogers is a priority target for the left wing, with the likes of Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli potentially leaving.
Arsenal will also look to sign Newcastle captain Bruno Guimaraes, who is keen to make the switch to north London after seeing both Anthony Gordon and Sandro Tonali depart.
