​Arsenal are reportedly set to replace Leandro Trossard with Club Brugge winger Christos Tzolis, according to The Athletic journalist James McNicholas. The Gunners believe Trossard is likely to depart the Emirates Stadium this summer, and manager Mikel Arteta is prioritizing a like-for-like replacement. In this plan, Tzolis has emerged as the leading candidate to fill the Belgian winger’s role, with Besiktas keen to secure Trossard and prepared to send a delegation to the United States to hold talks. The North London club are preparing for life without Trossard and are aiming to seal a deal around €40 million for Tzolis, a move they hope will bolster their attacking options for next season.
McNicholas outlined the expected development in a YouTube talk, noting that Besiktas are reportedly dispatching a delegation to meet with Leandro Trossard. He added that Christos Tzolis would likely be Arsene—sorry, Arsenal’s—preferred successor, with the deal projected to hover around €40 million. While he stressed that this would not be a high-profile “marquee signing,” the proposed transfer would nonetheless mark a significant tweak to Arsenal’s wide options as they look to maintain momentum in the Premier League.
At 24 years old, Tzolis is Greece international who enjoyed a productive spell with Fortuna Düsseldorf in the 2023-24 season, posting 24 goals and ten assists in 37 appearances in the 2. Bundesliga. His 2024-25 campaign with Fortuna Düsseldorf also produced strong numbers, tallying 21 goals and 16 assists across 56 games, underscoring his capability to contribute as a dynamic wide forward and creator. This form has sparked Arsenal’s interest, with the player himself reportedly open to a move to the Premier League club, drawn by the prospect of testing himself in English football after his earlier stint with Norwich City in the 2021-22 season.
Tzolis would bring experience in European competition and familiarity with high-intensity leagues, which could help him adapt quickly to life in the Premier League. His time in the 2. Bundesliga demonstrated his ability to influence games both through scor­ing and creating chances, traits that fit Arteta’s system, which relies on versatile attackers who can press, cut inside, and deliver from wide areas. If Arsenal can broker a deal for around €40 million, they would be securing a young, still-developing talent who could become a key piece in their evolving attack.
However, there are dependencies that could affect the timing and outcome of any potential move. Trossard’s future remains uncertain, and confirmation of his departure would likely accelerate Arsenal’s recruitment plan. Additionally, transfer negotiations typically hinge on a number of variables, including player willingness, club finances, wage structures, and the broader strategic priorities for the squad in the upcoming season. As such, while Tzolis appears to be the favored successor in this scenario, nothing is guaranteed until both clubs reach an agreement and the player passes any medical requirements.
In terms of the broader transfer window, Arsenal are expected to be active as they reassess their attacking options and prepare for life after Trossard. The club’s assessment suggests that a €40 million investment could represent sensible value for a winger with potential and Premier League familiarity, while still allowing Arteta to pursue other targets if terms with Trossard or other candidates do not materialize. The coming weeks will be crucial as Arsenal weigh the benefits of a swift, targeted addition against longer-term strategic goals for the squad.
Ultimately, the situation remains fluid. The proposed move would hinge on Trossard’s status, Besiktas’ willingness to accept a bid from Arsenal, and Tzolis’ readiness to relocate and adapt to English football. If negotiations progress positively, Arsenal could secure a capable replacement for Trossard in time for pre-season preparations, ensuring the squad remains competitive as they push to challenge for top-four finishes and pursue cup glory next season.