Arsenal are on the verge of completing the signing of goalkeeper Illan Meslier on a free transfer following the expiration of his contract with Leeds United F.C..

The Gunners have reached an agreement with the 26-year-old shot-stopper, who was at the club’s training centre in Hertfordshire on Tuesday to finalise the move and undergo a medical.

The transfer comes after BBC Sport first revealed Arsenal’s interest in Meslier on June 30, with negotiations progressing quickly to secure the French goalkeeper’s signature without a transfer fee.

Meslier became available after his Leeds contract expired this summer, ending a spell in which he made over 200 appearances for the Yorkshire club but eventually lost his place as the team’s first-choice goalkeeper.

His arrival provides Arsenal with additional depth in the goalkeeping department amid uncertainty surrounding the future of current backup goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga.

As things stand, Meslier is expected to begin next season as Arsenal’s third-choice goalkeeper behind first-choice David Raya and Arrizabalaga.

However, should Arrizabalaga leave the Emirates before the close of the transfer window, Meslier could be promoted to the role of deputy to Raya.

The signing is also expected to pave the way for highly-rated teenage goalkeeper Tommy Setford to leave Arsenal on loan in search of regular first-team football.

Meslier’s addition continues Arsenal’s preparations for another campaign competing on multiple fronts, with manager Mikel Arteta keen to strengthen the squad with experienced options across every position.