Arsenal have agreed a deal to sell Leandro Trossard to Besiktas for €20 million (£17.1 million) as the club prepares to invest heavily in a new left-sided attacker for the 2026-27 season. The move signals Arsenal's intent to build on their recent success under Mikel Arteta, who led the team to a first Premier League title in over 20 years and a Champions League final appearance, where they lost to Paris Saint-Germain on penalties in Budapest.
Trossard's Departure Facilitates Major Signing
The Athletic reports that a deal is in place for the Belgium international, who joined Arsenal in January 2023. Trossard has been a key figure for Arteta, contributing six goals and six assists in 31 matches last season, including the crucial winner against West Ham in May that helped secure the Premier League title. However, the 31-year-old's departure, which is not expected to be finalized until after the World Cup due to ongoing negotiations over personal terms, is seen as a necessary step to fund a marquee arrival.
Arsenal have been strongly linked with Aston Villa's Morgan Rogers and PSG's Bradley Barcola, both of whom would command substantial transfer fees. The sale of Trossard is expected to provide the financial flexibility needed to pursue one of these high-profile targets.
Morgan Rogers and Bradley Barcola in Focus
Aston Villa are reportedly demanding a British record £130 million to even consider selling Rogers, who enjoyed a stellar 2025-26 campaign. The 23-year-old has emerged as one of the most exciting talents in the Premier League, and Arsenal view him as a long-term solution on the left flank. Meanwhile, Bradley Barcola is also a prime target, with PSG valuing the French winger in excess of the £116 million that Manchester City paid for Elliot Anderson. Barcola has two years left on his contract in Paris, and talks over an extension have stalled, fueling speculation about a move.
Liverpool are also keen on Barcola, adding further competition for Arsenal. The Gunners are determined to strengthen their attacking options after Arteta's side fell short in the Champions League final, and the addition of a top-class left-sided attacker is seen as a priority.
Impact on Arsenal's Squad and Finances
The sale of Trossard represents a significant shift in Arsenal's transfer strategy, as they look to cash in on a player who has been a reliable contributor but is now 31. The €20 million fee will help balance the books and allow the club to make a statement signing. Arsenal's hierarchy are keen to build on last season's success, and investing in a younger, dynamic attacker is viewed as essential to maintaining their competitive edge.
With the World Cup looming, the Trossard deal is unlikely to be completed until after the tournament, but the agreement in principle gives Arsenal a clear path forward. Fans will be eagerly watching to see whether the club can secure either Rogers or Barcola, both of whom would represent a major upgrade in the final third.
