Arsenal have confirmed that Leandro Trossard is set to join Turkish side Besiktas in a deal worth approximately £20 million. The Belgium international winger’s departure marks the first significant step in Mikel Arteta’s plan to reshape his attack and clear the path for priority target Morgan Rogers.
Arsenal Clear Path for Morgan Rogers
Manager Mikel Arteta has long been keen to upgrade the left-hand side of his frontline, with Rogers identified as the dream signing this summer. Standard Sport understands that fellow left winger Gabriel Martinelli has also been made available for transfer, indicating a major overhaul on that flank.
Rogers, 23, is valued in the region of £130 million, though little progress has been made on any potential deal due to England’s involvement at the World Cup. Arteta is a big admirer of the England international and is determined to bring him to the Premier League champions this summer.
Aston Villa’s Stance and Transfer Activity
Aston Villa are expected to resist selling Rogers, but the player is said to be keen on the move to Arsenal. The Midlands club has experienced a rollercoaster transfer window, having hijacked Newcastle’s move for Johan Manzambi while also seeing Youri Tielemans and Lucas Digne head for the exit.
Tielemans is set to join Manchester United after his £35 million release clause was triggered, and Paris Saint-Germain are said to have activated a similar clause for Digne. The departures could force Villa to reconsider their stance on Rogers, especially if a substantial offer arrives.
Impact on Arsenal’s Squad
Trossard’s sale frees up both squad space and funds for Arteta to pursue his primary target. The 30-year-old winger joined Arsenal from Brighton in January 2023 and made 47 appearances, scoring 8 goals. His departure, combined with Martinelli’s potential exit, signals a clear intention to refresh the attacking options.
Arsenal are likely to intensify their pursuit of Rogers once the World Cup concludes, with Arteta viewing the young attacker as a key piece in his long-term plans. The club’s hierarchy is expected to back the manager with significant resources to secure the deal.
