Arsenal land Trossard after missing out on Mudryk
Mykhaylo Mudryk escaped them but the Gunners have reinforced their attack with Leandro Trossard who joins from Brighton.
Arsenal have completed the signing of Leandro Trossard from Brighton and Hove Albion for a reported £27million fee. The Belgium international has agreed a long-term deal at Emirates Stadium, which is thought to run through until 30 June 2027.
You might also enjoy
Debut against United?
The Premier League leaders confirmed the news on their official website on Friday, with the versatile midfielder, who has been handed the No.19 shirt, eligible to make his debut for his new club against Manchester United at the Emirates on Sunday.
“He trained today so hopefully he will be available on Sunday - he’s good to go. It is good work from everyone at the club to complete the signing of Leandro,” Gunners manager Mikel Arteta said. “He is a versatile player with high technical ability, intelligence and a great deal of experience in the Premier League and at international level. He knows the league, has enough experience here, and I think he can have an immediate impact in the team. Leandro strengthens our squad as we head into the second part of the season and we’re all looking forward to working with him.”
Arsenal made no secret of their desire to bring in attacking reinforcements this month, with Mykhaylo Mudryk initially seen to be their primary target. But Chelsea beat them to the signing of the Ukraine international last week despite the player appearing keen for a move to north London. Shakhtar Donetsk confirmed Arsenal matched Chelsea’ reported £89m (€100m) bid, but they felt the variables and bonuses in the Blues’ offer were more realistic. However, some might feel Trossard is a less risky signing and represents better value.
Arsenal are thought to have been keen on Trossard since before he joined Brighton from Genk in 2019, and at the Amex Stadium he has blossomed into a high-level winger who offers both a goal scoring threat and creativity. Since the start of last season, Trossard is one of just seven players to score at least 14 Premier League goals (excluding penalties) and create more than 65 chances in open play – the others are Harry Kane, Mohamed Salah, Kevin De Bruyne, Martin Ødegaard, Bukayo Saka and Bruno Fernandes.
Spurs interest
Arsenal’s north London rivals Tottenham had also been credited with an interest, though recent reports suggested a £12m bid by Spurs was “laughed off”. Trossard had been keen to leave Brighton after falling out with head coach Roberto De Zerbi, who criticised the winger’s attitude earlier this month after taking him out of the team.