Arsenal legend Alan Smith has criticised Mikel Arteta's decision to sell Leandro Trossard for £17 million, describing it as a potential transfer mistake. The former Gunners striker expressed surprise at the club's willingness to part with the Belgian winger, who has been a key squad player since his arrival in 2023.
Smith questions value of Trossard sale
Speaking to BestBettingSites, Smith argued that finding a replacement of similar quality for such a modest fee would be extremely challenging. 'Do you think Arsenal get a better squad player than Leandro Trossard for that sort of money? Difficult, very difficult,' he said. 'I think, when you see what he's contributed over the years, he scored some big goals. He got the only goal at West Ham in that vital match towards the end.'
Trossard, 31, is close to finalising a move to Turkish club Besiktas after Arsenal agreed a £17 million deal. The Gunners had failed to reach an agreement with the player over a contract extension, prompting the sale. Trossard attracted interest from Besiktas and Saudi Arabian clubs following the conclusion of the season.
Fan favourite heading for exit
Smith highlighted the emotional connection between Trossard and the Arsenal supporters. 'The fans love him, always singing Leo, and they'll be sad to see him go, I think. I was a bit surprised,' he added. 'Maybe Trossard wanted to go, maybe there was an offer there and he thought he had done his bit in England. You never know what's behind the scenes, but yeah, I think the fans certainly will be sorry to see him go.'
Trossard made 174 appearances for Arsenal after joining from Brighton for £27 million in 2023. He played in 31 of the club's 36 Premier League matches last season, contributing to Arsenal's first league title since 2004. The Belgian also started the Champions League final against PSG in May, though he was substituted late on before the penalty shootout defeat.
Arsenal's summer plans
Arteta is aiming to oversee a productive transfer window as Arsenal prepare to defend their Premier League crown. The club is expected to back the manager with at least three major signings, with interest in Julian Alvarez, Morgan Rogers and Bradley Barcola. However, Arteta is also willing to sanction exits for players he believes are past their best or can be upgraded.
Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Martinelli, Ben White and Kepa Arrizabalaga have all been linked with summer moves, while fellow title winner Leandro Trossard is set to depart. Trossard will complete his transfer after the World Cup, where Belgium face European champions Spain in the quarter-finals on Friday.
