Arsenal may allow another player to leave before the transfer window closes

Arsenal preparing a possible surprise before the end of the summer transfer window. According to the latest reports, the London club could part ways with a player signed this summer only. After strengthening the defense with Ezri Konsa, midfielder Bruno Guimarães and striker Christos Tzolis, while targeting Julián Álvarez as a major target, it is in goal that the club could see an unexpected departure before the transfer deadline.

  Arsenal is considering a possible exit for Illan Meslier, the French goalkeeper signed this summer by Mikel Arteta. Arriving at London Colney to compete with Kepa Arrizabalaga in the shadow of David Raya, the player has yet to find his place in the squad. The Spanish goalkeeper, world champion and three-time Premier League Golden Glove winner, remains untouchable in the Gunners' goal, just like Declan Rice or Bukayo Saka. However, according to journalist Santi Aouna, Marseille is interested in Meslier. The latter claims on X (formerly Twitter) that "Marseille still needs to reduce its squad before it can finalize an offer," but a loan arrival for the Frenchman could materialize before the transfer window closes next week.

A change of strategy for Arsenal in goal

This possible departure of Meslier could disrupt Arsenal's goalkeeper recruitment plans. The club was expected to sign Tommy Setford, a 20-year-old goalkeeper who served as the third choice last season. But this new lead suggests that the Dutchman, an England youth international, could remain for another season, while Meslier leaves the club. The Gunners have experienced significant turnover in goal since Mikel Arteta's arrival. In 2020, Emiliano Martínez left for Aston Villa, replaced by Alex Runarsson, then by Mat Ryan on loan in January 2021, before Aaron Ramsdale's permanent arrival as the starter. Arsenal and Sporting CP are looking to strengthen their squads. In 2022, Matt Turner signed to replace Bernd Leno, before David Raya arrived on loan and then permanently in 2024. This summer, after Ramsdale's departure, Neto was loaned from Bournemouth, while Kepa joined the club to take on the cup goalkeeper role. Meslier, valued at €8 million by Transfermarkt, could therefore leave Emirates Stadium before the end of the transfer window. Arsenal face Aston Villa in the next Premier League matchday. Marseille, which is looking to reduce its squad before finalizing a recruitment, may turn to Illan Meslier. The French club, in the midst of a rebuild, needs to clarify its situation in goal before the transfer deadline. According to Santi Aouna, the Phocéens could propose a loan for the French goalkeeper, who has already been approached by several European clubs. This opportunity could accelerate a decision by Arsenal, as the transfer window draws to a close. Arsenal confirms its status as favorites after a comprehensive win against Coventry. Illan Meslier’s situation highlights the challenges faced by English clubs in managing their squads, especially in such strategic positions as goalkeeper. With David Raya untouchable, Arsenal must find a solution for Meslier, whose market value is estimated at €8 million. An exit before the transfer window closes could allow the club to rebalance its budget and prepare for the upcoming season under the best possible conditions.