Arsenal agree deal to sign former Leeds United goalkeeper Illan Meslier

Former Leeds United goalkeeper Illan Meslier is set to return to the Premier League after Arsenal reached an agreement to sign the Frenchman following his departure from Elland Road earlier this summer.

Transfer journalist Ben Jacobs has reported that the Gunners have agreed a deal with the 26-year-old, who was available as a free agent after bringing his six-year spell at Leeds to an end.

Meslier is now expected to join Mikel Arteta's squad ahead of the new campaign, adding further competition in Arsenal's goalkeeping department.

The move marks the latest chapter in Meslier's career after a memorable, if at times turbulent, spell in West Yorkshire.

Signed initially on loan from Lorient in 2019 before the deal was made permanent, the Frenchman quickly established himself as Leeds' number one and became one of the youngest first-choice goalkeepers in the Premier League.

Meslier played a key role in Leeds' return to the top flight under Marcelo Bielsa, producing a string of impressive performances during the club's first Premier League campaign following promotion.

His shot-stopping ability, composure on the ball and confidence beyond his years earned widespread praise, with many tipping him to become one of Europe's leading young goalkeepers.

However, his time at Elland Road was not without criticism.

As Leeds endured several difficult seasons, Meslier found himself under increasing scrutiny following several high-profile errors.

While supporters continued to recognise his talent and the number of points he had won for the club over the years, inconsistency became a recurring talking point.

Despite that, Meslier leaves Leeds having made well over 200 appearances for the club across all competitions, establishing himself as one of the longest-serving members of the squad before his departure.

His arrival at Arsenal would give Arteta another experienced Premier League goalkeeper capable of challenging for minutes while also providing reliable cover throughout a campaign that will see the North London club competing on multiple fronts.

Jacobs also reports that Arsenal's goalkeeping situation remains far from settled despite Meslier's impending arrival.

There is still no guarantee that Kepa Arrizabalaga will remain at the Emirates Stadium, with the Spanish international understood to be open to leaving in search of regular first-team football.

Should Kepa depart, Meslier's signing could prove even more significant.

While David Raya is expected to remain Arsenal's first-choice goalkeeper, the former Leeds stopper would offer quality depth and valuable Premier League experience if called upon.

For Leeds supporters, the move will likely be met with mixed emotions.

Meslier divided opinion during the latter stages of his time at Elland Road, but there is little doubt he played an important role during one of the club's most memorable modern eras.

From helping Leeds establish themselves back in the Premier League to producing countless match-winning saves, his contribution should not be overlooked.

Now, the Frenchman looks set for a fresh challenge with one of the Premier League's title contenders.

If the deal is completed as expected, Meslier will have the opportunity to revive his career at the highest level and prove that the ability which once made him one of England's brightest young goalkeepers is still very much there.