Arsenal have firmly turned down a bid from Saudi Pro League outfit Al Ittihad for their winger, Leandro Trossard, according to recent reports.
As the Premier League transfer window closed on August 30, highlighted by Raheem Sterling’s move to Arsenal and Jadon Sancho’s transfer to Chelsea, the spotlight shifted to other leagues.
The Saudi Pro League’s transfer window remains open until September 2, giving teams extra time to finalize their deals.
Renowned football transfer expert, Fabrizio Romano, on Monday, reported that Al Ittihad had made a move for Belgian international Trossard, seeking to lure him away from Arsenal.
Romano stated, “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.”
Al Ittihad, who have already signed Moussa Diaby from Aston Villa this summer and feature stars like Karim Benzema and N’Golo Kante, had hoped to bring Trossard into their squad.
However, The Athletic reports that Arsenal dismissed the “informal proposal” from the Saudi side, which sought a season-long loan with an obligation to purchase Trossard next summer for between €20-25m.
Arsenal is determined to retain Trossard, viewing him as a crucial asset for their ongoing season.
Trossard, who started his first Premier League match of the 2024/25 season against Brighton & Hove Albion on August 31, had previously come off the bench in wins against Aston Villa and Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Despite his recent frustration with limited starts, Arsenal’s depth in the left-wing position remains a key factor in Mikel Arteta’s plans.
During the 2023/24 season, Trossard proved instrumental for Arsenal, making 46 appearances and scoring 17 goals in their pursuit of the Premier League title. His role remains vital, as evidenced by his opening goal in the win over Villa on August 24.
The arrival of Sterling from Chelsea has added to the competition on the left wing, while Reiss Nelson’s transfer to Fulham on deadline day further reshuffles the squad.
Arsenal will next face Tottenham Hotspur after the international break in what promises to be a thrilling north London derby.
