Leandro Trossard has completed a move from Arsenal to Turkish Süper Lig side Besiktas Istanbul, the club confirmed on Tuesday. The 31-year-old Belgian winger joins Besiktas after less than a year with the Gunners, having arrived from Brighton & Hove Albion in January 2023.
According to multiple Belgian media outlets, Trossard has signed a contract with Besiktas that runs until 2030, featuring a release clause of €20 million. The financial details of the transfer are also significant, with reports suggesting Trossard will earn an additional €1 million per year in salary, alongside a signing bonus of €1.5 million.
Trossard played a role in Arsenal’s successful 2023-24 season, contributing to their Premier League title challenge and run to the Champions League quarter-finals. He quickly became a valued member of Mikel Arteta’s squad, demonstrating versatility and a knack for important goals. However, with only one year remaining on his contract at the Emirates Stadium, Arsenal have opted to cash in on the player.
The arrival of Greek winger Christos Tzolis, 24, from Club Brugge is expected to fill the void left by Trossard’s departure. Arsenal are clearly looking to the future on the left wing, with Tzolis offering a younger profile and potential for further development. Trossard’s move to Besiktas represents a significant opportunity for increased earnings and a new challenge in a different league. This transfer demonstrates that lucrative opportunities outside of Saudi Arabia are available for players seeking pre-retirement financial benefits.
The move allows Arsenal to reshape their attacking options, while Trossard gains a long-term contract and a substantial pay increase. Besiktas adds a proven Premier League performer to their ranks, bolstering their squad ahead of the upcoming season.
