Arsenal have agreed a £34m deal to sign Club Brugge forward Christos Tzolis as a direct replacement for Leandro Trossard, with the Gunners also stepping up efforts to add defensive cover amid concerns over William Saliba's back injury. The Greece international, who scored 22 goals last season, is expected to undergo a medical in the coming days and sign a long-term contract.
Arsenal's £34m Deal for Christos Tzolis
The Premier League champions have verbally agreed to pay Club Brugge’s asking price of up to €40m (£34m) for Tzolis, though an official bid has yet to be submitted. The 24-year-old, who previously played for Norwich City, usually operates on the left flank and will fill the void left by Trossard after his €18m (£15.3m) move to Besiktas was confirmed this week.
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Arsenal are still planning more attacking reinforcements this summer and retain an interest in Atlético Madrid’s Julián Álvarez, though he is also wanted by Real Madrid and Barcelona. Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers and Paris Saint-Germain’s Bradley Barcola are other potential targets.
Defensive Cover Needed for William Saliba
Arsenal are also focusing on defensive cover after concerns that William Saliba could miss the start of the new season due to ongoing back issues. The France defender was taken off during the World Cup semi-final defeat to Spain after breaking down at the start of the second half. Saliba admitted he has been “gritting his teeth” and playing through pain for some time, with reports in France suggesting he may require back surgery.
Arsenal intend to make their own assessment before deciding whether surgery is necessary. The club also has major concerns over Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka’s fitness, as both admitted they have been playing through pain during the World Cup. They are expected to be given extended rest periods.
Comparison: Tzolis vs. Trossard Stats (2024-25 Season)
| Player | Goals | Assists | Shots per Game | Key Passes per Game |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Christos Tzolis | 22 | 8 | 2.5 | 1.8 |
| Leandro Trossard | 12 | 6 | 1.9 | 1.5 |
Key Takeaways from Arsenal's Transfer Plans
- Christos Tzolis is set to join Arsenal for £34m as a direct replacement for Leandro Trossard.
- Arsenal are targeting defensive cover due to William Saliba’s back injury concerns.
- Interest remains in Julián Álvarez, Morgan Rogers, and Bradley Barcola for further attacking options.
- Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka may be rested after playing through pain at the World Cup.
FAQ
How much is Arsenal paying for Christos Tzolis?
Arsenal have agreed a deal worth up to €40m (£34m) with Club Brugge for Christos Tzolis, though an official bid has yet to be submitted.
Why is Arsenal signing a replacement for Leandro Trossard?
Leandro Trossard completed a €18m (£15.3m) move to Besiktas this week, prompting Arsenal to bring in Christos Tzolis as a direct replacement on the left flank.
Will William Saliba miss the start of the new season?
There are concerns that William Saliba could miss the start of the season due to a back injury. Arsenal will assess him before deciding if surgery is needed.