Leandro Trossard's agent has cast doubt on the Belgian winger's departure from Arsenal, potentially jeopardising the club's £35 million move for Club Brugge forward Christos Tzolis. Trossard, 31, was widely expected to join Turkish side Besiktas for around €18 million (£15.3 million), with personal terms reportedly agreed and a deal set to be finalised after the World Cup. However, agent Dirk Hebel has now indicated that Trossard has yet to make a final decision and could remain at the Emirates.
Agent Confirms Besiktas Effort but No Decision
Speaking to Sky in Germany, Hebel said: “I can confirm that Besiktas did everything they could to sign Leandro Trossard. However, no decision has been made yet. Leandro has all the offers on the table and will make his decision soon. He is a world-class player with several options, including staying at Arsenal.”
Should Trossard stay, it would put Arsenal's pursuit of Tzolis in doubt. The 24-year-old Greek international scored 22 goals for Club Brugge last season and is seen as an ideal replacement for Trossard, who netted eight times for Arsenal in their Premier League title-winning campaign and added two goals for Belgium at the World Cup.
Arsenal's Transfer Plans Face Multiple Uncertainties
Beyond the Trossard-Tzolis situation, Arsenal face further complications in their summer transfer business. The club has long-standing interest in Manchester City's Julian Alvarez, but Barcelona president Joan Laporta has confirmed the Catalan club's offer for the Argentine forward includes a deadline. Laporta stated: “We've made an offer that isn't unlimited, and in due course we'll announce how long the offer remains on the table. The offer was made with the intention of signing a player who appeals to both the sports management and the coach. I think he's a great player; we're maintaining the substantial offer, but the validity of this offer is not unlimited.”
Additionally, Arsenal's move for Newcastle midfielder Bruno Guimaraes is reportedly in doubt. The Gunners believed the Brazilian might be available for around £50 million, but that no longer appears to be the case.
Impact on Arsenal's Summer Window
With Mikel Arteta yet to kick off his summer transfer business, these developments could significantly shape Arsenal's squad for the upcoming season. The potential departure of Trossard and arrival of Tzolis was seen as a key piece of business, but the uncertainty now leaves the club exploring alternative options. The coming weeks will be critical as Arsenal look to strengthen their title defence while navigating a complex transfer market.
