Illan Meslier ‘to join’ Arsenal after turning down Birmingham No.1 role | OneFootball

Illan Meslier has reportedly turned down the chance to be a Championship No.1 in order to join Premier League champions Arsenal.

The Athletic reports that the 26-year-old is due to link up with Mikel Arteta’s squad, while the Daily Mail claims Birmingham City offered him the No.1 role but could not match Arsenal’s terms. yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk understands a new deal is agreed with Alex Cairns and that Karl Darlow’s future remains uncertain.

Meslier left Leeds this summer after seven years as his contract expired. He was third-choice last season behind Karl Darlow and Lucas Perri, did not make a first-team appearance and played only a handful of Under-21 games.

At Arsenal he is expected to be back-up at best, with David Raya holding the No.1 shirt. Should Kepa Arrizabalaga remain at the Emirates, Meslier could again be third-choice.

If Kepa departs, reportedly available for around £5m, Meslier’s chances of cup minutes would improve. Last season, Raya did not feature in the Carabao Cup or FA Cup and was rested for a Champions League tie against Kazakhstan side Kairat Almaty.

Meslier was one of three senior goalkeepers to see Leeds contracts expire and appears set to resolve his future first. Darlow, the Welsh international, has been offered new terms but is believed to have interest from Manchester United and Everton. If he moves on, Daniel Farke will need another goalkeeper.

Source: yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk