Arsenal are closing in on a £34 million signing as they move to replace Leandro Trossard following his departure to Besiktas. The Gunners were open to offers for the Belgian winger despite his key role in ending Arsenal's long Premier League title drought.
Trossard's Arsenal legacy
Across four seasons at the Emirates, Trossard made 174 appearances and scored vital goals, including the winner in a crucial victory over West Ham late last season. Mikel Arteta's trust in the 31-year-old was evident when he started the Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain in May. However, Arsenal decided to sell Trossard as he entered the final year of his contract and was likely past his peak.
Trossard signed a three-year deal with Besiktas after the Turkish club agreed an €18 million (£15.3 million) fee. Arsenal paid tribute to the title winner, stating: 'Everyone at the club would like to thank Leo for his valued contribution to the club and wish him all the best for his future.'
Tzolis targeted as replacement
Trossard's exit paves the way for a new attacking signing, with Arsenal closing in on Christos Tzolis. The Gunners have been linked with the Club Brugge winger for weeks, aware of interest from other European giants. Belgian outlet Het Nieuwsblad reports Arsenal have pulled ahead in the transfer race and are set to approach Club Brugge with an official offer. The Greece international, 24, is reportedly ready to reject all other approaches in favour of a move to the Premier League champions.
Tzolis began his career at PAOK before spending two seasons at Norwich City—one in the Premier League and one in the Championship. He has thrived since his 2024 move to Club Brugge, scoring 43 goals across the last two seasons.
Arsenal's summer transfer plans
Tzolis is set to become Arteta's third signing of the summer, following back-up goalkeeper Illan Meslier and Piero Hincapie, who completed a permanent move from Bayer Leverkusen. Arsenal are expected to sign another attacking player after Tzolis, having expressed interest in Atletico Madrid's Argentine World Cup star Julian Alvarez. The club also admires England's Morgan Rogers but has been put off by Aston Villa's asking price of over £100 million.
Arsenal won the Premier League by seven points last season but will be wary of a resurgence from Manchester City and Liverpool.
