Arsenal are exploring a move for Illan Meslier as uncertainty continues around Kepa Arrizabalaga’s future as David Raya’s back-up goalkeeper.
Sky Sports reports that Kepa’s Arsenal future is not totally assured this summer, with the Gunners keeping tabs on former Leeds United goalkeeper Meslier in case the Spaniard leaves the Emirates.
Get French Football News has also reported Arsenal’s interest, citing doubts over Kepa’s position as Raya’s understudy and Meslier’s availability after leaving Leeds.
Mikel Arteta Gets A Low-Cost Goalkeeper Option
Meslier’s appeal is clear. He has English football experience, is still only 26, and would arrive without the same fee pressure attached to a starting-level target.
That matters for a club already managing a busy summer of attacking and midfield priorities. A low-cost goalkeeper route would leave Arsenal’s larger budget focused on outfield upgrades rather than an expensive reserve role.
The risk is just as clear. Meslier lost his Leeds place after a difficult spell, so this would not be a glamour move. It would be a squad-structure decision: protect Raya, replace Kepa if required, and avoid overpaying for a number two.
For Andrea Berta, the attraction is flexibility. Arsenal do not need to spend heavily on a goalkeeper unless Raya’s position changes. They need a dependable deputy who can handle cup minutes and keep the wider squad plan intact.
Read Arsenal has already covered how Kepa’s role could shape Mikel Arteta’s cup planning, and this update suggests the club are preparing for the next version of that same problem before it becomes urgent.
Meslier would not transform Arsenal’s summer. He would, however, give them a practical answer if Kepa decides he wants regular football elsewhere.
