Arsenal have agreed a deal worth up to €40m (£34m) with Club Brugge to sign Christos Tzolis, a Greece international who scored 22 goals last season, as a replacement for Leandro Trossard. The transfer is expected to be finalized in the coming days with a medical and long-term contract.
Arsenal's attacking reinforcement
Tzolis, a former Norwich forward who usually plays on the left flank, will directly replace Trossard after his €18m (£15.3m) departure to Besiktas. Arsenal are still planning more attacking signings, with interest in Atlético Madrid's Julián Álvarez, Aston Villa's Morgan Rogers, and PSG's Bradley Barcola.
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Defensive concerns mount
Arsenal are also stepping up attempts to sign defensive cover due to concerns that William Saliba could miss the start of the new season with a back injury. The France defender was taken off in the World Cup semi-final defeat to Spain after breaking down in the second half. Saliba admitted he has been "gritting his teeth" and playing through pain for some time, with reports suggesting he may require back surgery.
Fitness worries for key stars
The Premier League champions also have major concerns over Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka's fitness and workload after both admitted playing through pain at the World Cup. Arsenal intend to make their own assessment before deciding on surgery for Saliba.
Transfer comparison: Tzolis vs. Trossard
| Player | Fee | Goals Last Season | Position |
|---|---|---|---|
| Christos Tzolis | €40m (£34m) | 22 | Left winger |
| Leandro Trossard | €18m (£15.3m) | 8 | Left winger |
Key takeaways
- Arsenal have verbally agreed to pay Club Brugge's asking price for Tzolis.
- William Saliba's back injury could require surgery, prompting defensive recruitment.
- Interest in Julián Álvarez, Morgan Rogers, and Bradley Barcola remains active.
- Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka are managing fitness issues after the World Cup.
FAQ
Is Christos Tzolis joining Arsenal?
Yes, Arsenal have agreed a £34m deal with Club Brugge for Tzolis, with a medical expected soon.
Why is Arsenal signing defensive cover?
William Saliba's back injury may require surgery, creating a need for cover at centre-back.
Who else is Arsenal targeting this summer?
Arsenal are interested in Julián Álvarez, Morgan Rogers, and Bradley Barcola to bolster their attack.