Arsenal have accepted a €20 million (£17.2m) offer from Turkish club Besiktas for winger Leandro Trossard, according to reports in Turkey. The Premier League champions are willing to let the 31-year-old leave after manager Mikel Arteta sanctioned the exit, with the club looking to strengthen in the same position this summer.
Besiktas revive interest after previous attempt
Besiktas were interested in signing the Belgium international last summer, with their interest lingering until the final days of the Turkish transfer window. Arsenal eventually decided not to sell the former Brighton star, who went on to play an important role in the club ending their 22-year wait for a Premier League title. Trossard scored a vital winner away to West Ham United during the title-winning campaign.
The winger contributed eight goals and 11 assists last season, sharing left wing duties with Gabriel Martinelli. Arteta preferred Trossard in the Premier League, where he started 21 matches. However, Arsenal are now keen to strengthen in that position, with both Martinelli and Trossard among those who could be sold.
Besiktas confident of completing deal
Turkish outlet Sporx reports that Besiktas have seen their offer for Trossard accepted by the Premier League champions. Besiktas football director Önder Özen has held talks with the winger's agent and is desperate for a final decision. The Turkish club is also aware of interest from Saudi Arabian side Al-Diraiyah, but Besiktas are eager to wrap up a deal as soon as possible.
Trossard has indicated he does not want to enter negotiations with any club until after the World Cup. Belgium are set to face Senegal on Wednesday for a place in the last 16. Despite being made to wait, Besiktas are said to be confident of getting the deal done.
Trossard's World Cup form and Arsenal's summer plans
Trossard has started all three of Belgium's World Cup matches to date, scoring twice in the 5-1 thrashing of New Zealand that secured their place in the last 32. Arsenal are believed to be in the market for a right back, central midfielder, left winger and a forward this summer. Bradley Barcola is a name of interest, but Paris Saint-Germain have no intention of letting the France international leave despite their move for Yan Diomande.
