ARSENAL BLOCK SAUDI MOVE FOR TROSSARD

Arsenal have firmly rejected an approach from Saudi club Al Ittihad for Leandro Trossard, making it clear that the versatile forward is not for sale. Despite a lucrative offer that included an initial loan with an obligation to buy, potentially worth up to £25 million, the Gunners are determined to keep Trossard in their squad.

With the English transfer window closed, Arsenal would be unable to replace the 29-year-old until January, adding to their reluctance to entertain any offers. The Saudi transfer window remains open until Monday, but Arsenal’s stance leaves little room for negotiation. This decision underscores Trossard’s importance to the team, especially after a summer where the club let go of Emile Smith Rowe, Eddie Nketiah, Fabio Vieira, and Reiss Nelson, only reinforcing their attacking options by bringing in Raheem Sterling on loan from Chelsea.

Since joining Arsenal from Brighton in January 2023 for an initial £21 million, Trossard has become a crucial part of Mikel Arteta’s squad. His signing followed the club’s unsuccessful attempt to secure Mykhailo Mudryk, who eventually went to Chelsea. Despite that, Trossard has quickly won over Arsenal fans, thanks to his knack for scoring critical goals, often stepping up from the bench to make a significant impact.

This season, Trossard began as the second-choice left winger behind Gabriel Martinelli. However, his performances have been so strong that he now appears to have overtaken the Brazilian in the pecking order. His goal-scoring ability was on full display last month when he came off the bench to score the opening goal in a stellar cameo against Aston Villa. His efforts earned him a spot in the starting lineup for Arsenal’s 1-1 draw with Brighton last Saturday, indicating his growing influence within the team.

Arsenal’s refusal to consider Al Ittihad’s offer highlights the club’s belief in Trossard’s value and potential to contribute significantly this season. As the team navigates a busy schedule and aims to compete on multiple fronts, keeping hold of key players like Trossard will be vital to their success.