Arsenal have agreed to a club-to-club deal with Besiktas for the permanent transfer of Leandro Trossard, with the total fee reaching €20 million including add-ons. The agreement, worth an initial €18 million plus a potential €2 million in add-ons, is according to reports from The Athletic. Personal terms between Trossard and Besiktas are currently being finalised.
The move allows Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta to focus on potential upgrades in the wide positions. Trossard joined Arsenal in January 2023 from Brighton & Hove Albion, making 33 appearances and scoring one goal for the Gunners. He was part of the squad that challenged for the Premier League title in the 2023-24 season, although he wasn't always a regular starter under Mikel Arteta.
Arsenal are now expected to pursue either Bradley Barcola of Paris Saint-Germain or Morgan Rogers of Aston Villa. Rogers is reportedly valued at £130 million by Aston Villa, while PSG are seeking at least £116 million for Barcola. Recent reports suggest that PSG's interest in Yan Diomande may facilitate Barcola's departure, potentially favouring a move to Arsenal.
The sale of Trossard is part of Arsenal’s strategy to fund a sustained period of success and upgrade the current squad. The club is reportedly willing to make ruthless decisions to improve upon players who contributed to their recent success. This move frees up funds and a squad space as Arteta looks to strengthen his options ahead of the new season. The potential arrival of Barcola or Rogers would provide competition and depth in the attacking positions.
