Arsenal have confirmed the departure of Belgian forward Leandro Trossard, who has joined Turkish club Besiktas in a deal worth 18 million euros (£15.3 million). The agreement runs for three years, while Besiktas also hold the option to extend his stay by an additional season.
The payment will be made in six equal installments across the next three years. Earlier this week, Trossard travelled to Istanbul after both clubs finalized the transfer agreement and approved his medical examination.
The 31 year old forward leaves Arsenal after spending more than two successful seasons at the club. He originally arrived from Brighton in January 2023 for an initial fee of £21 million, with additional performance related bonuses included in the transfer.
Trossard Leaves After an Impressive Arsenal Career
During his time at Arsenal, Trossard became one of the club’s most reliable attacking players. He scored 36 goals and provided 34 assists in 174 appearances across all competitions.
He played a key role in Arsenal’s Premier League title winning campaign last season. The Belgian international also started the Champions League final, where Arsenal finished as runners up against Paris Saint Germain.
On the international stage, Trossard remained an important figure for Belgium. He started all six matches during this summer’s FIFA World Cup and scored twice before Belgium exited the tournament in the quarter finals against Spain.
Arsenal Ready to Move for Christos Tzolis
Following Trossard’s departure, Arsenal have stepped up their plans to strengthen their attack.
The North London club are preparing an offer for Club Brugge winger Christos Tzolis. Arsenal have tracked the Greek international for several months, and the Belgian club now expect an official bid.
Sporting director Andrea Berta continues to lead negotiations after Arsenal’s recruitment team closely monitored the 24 year old during Greece’s recent international fixture against Sweden.
Reports suggest Tzolis could be available for around 35 million euros, which is approximately £30 million.
More Attacking Targets Remain on Arsenal’s List
Although Arsenal are working on the Tzolis deal, they continue to explore other high profile attacking options.
The club still admire Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez, who remains one of their long term transfer targets. However, competition from Barcelona and Real Madrid could make negotiations difficult during this transfer window.
Meanwhile, Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers is another player Arsenal admire. The club are expected to increase their efforts to sign the England international once his World Cup campaign ends. Villa reportedly value Rogers at around £130 million.
Paris Saint Germain winger Bradley Barcola also remains on Arsenal’s shortlist. He could become an alternative if Arsenal fail to agree a deal for Rogers.
Arsenal Continue to Invest in Young Talent
Arsenal are also looking toward the future by monitoring promising young players.
Club scout Maurizio Micheli recently watched Georgia Under 21 forward Andria Bartishvili during Iberia 1999’s Champions League qualifying match against Flora. Arsenal are believed to be increasing their interest in the teenage attacker as they continue building for the future.
Arsenal Focus on Strengthening Their Squad
Arsenal’s summer transfer activity shows the club are determined to refresh their attacking options. Trossard’s departure creates space for new arrivals, while several talented forwards remain under consideration.
With multiple transfer negotiations progressing, Arsenal supporters can expect further developments before the transfer window closes.
