Arsenal have rejected an offer from Saudi Arabian side Al-Ittihad for winger Leandro Trossard.
It was reported this morning that the Pro League club had bid £29.5million for Trossard but, according to The Athletic and Fabrizio Romano, Arsenal have turned it down and made clear the Belgium international is a key part of their plans.
Al-Ittihad have now switched their attention to Porto’s Galeno instead with the Pro League transfer window not closing until 10pm BST tonight.
Trossard started Arsenal’s first two games of the season – against Wolves and Aston Villa – on the bench, but made an impact in the latter, coming on in the 65th minute to grab the Gunners’ opening goal as they eased to a 2-0 win at Villa Park.
His celebrations after scoring were strangely understated, however, and Gunners boss Mikel Arteta admitted afterwards that was due to frustration at being left out of the starting XI.
Trossard was recalled for Saturday’s game against Brighton but was taken off after 59 minutes with Arteta having to reshuffle following the sending off of midfielder Declan Rice.
🚨🔴⚪️ Arsenal have informed Al Ittihad about their decision to reject €35m proposal for Leandro Trossard, as exclusively revealed.
He’s considered key player for the project and NOT for sale.
🟡⚫️🇧🇷 Al Ittihad are now targeting FC Porto winger Galeno with an official bid. pic.twitter.com/uxo0W3DMpU
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 2, 2024
Trossard joined Arsenal from Brighton in January 2023 for a fee reported to be £20million with £7m in potential add-ons.
And the 29-year-old has been a key part of a squad that has had to settle for runners-up finishes behind Manchester City in the Premier League.
