Arsenal have bolstered their goalkeeping ranks with the signing of Illan Meslier on a free transfer.
Meslier spent seven years at Leeds, making 215 appearances in all competitions, although he lost his place last season to Karl Darlow after several mistakes.
He is expected to act as back-up to David Raya with former number two Kepa Arrizabalaga eager to move on in search of more regular first-team football.
The 26-year-old, who was out of contract at Elland Road, told the Arsenal website: “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 the first signing of the summer for champions Arsenal
Frenchman Meslier is the first man through the door at the Emirates, although more are expected.
Arsenal are reported to have targeted Newcastle captain Bruno Guimaraes with the Brazil midfielder keen to leave Tyneside for North London.
According to The Athletic, Arsenal have had a £60million offer rejected but are expected to return with an improved bid.
Newcastle have no intention of selling their star man, who has two years left on his contract, but the player’s eagerness to quit St James’ Park may force their hand.
What they won’t want is a situation similar to last season that saw Alexander Isak eventually leave for Liverpool after a stand-off that derailed the club’s sisummer plans.
Newcastle have already sold Anthony Gordon to Barcelona while Sandro Tonali joined Tottenham.
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