Arsenal have accepted a €20 million (£17.2 million) offer from Turkish side Besiktas for winger Leandro Trossard, according to reports in Turkey. The Premier League champions are now awaiting the player's decision, with the Belgian international focused on the World Cup.
Besiktas revive interest after last summer's failed move
Besiktas had pursued Trossard during the previous summer transfer window, with interest lingering until the final days of the Turkish market. Arsenal ultimately decided against selling the former Brighton star, who then played a pivotal role in ending the club's 22-year Premier League title drought. Trossard scored a vital winner away to West Ham United during the title run-in.
The 31-year-old enjoyed a productive season, netting eight goals and providing 11 assists while sharing left-wing duties with Gabriel Martinelli. Trossard was Mikel Arteta's preferred option in the Premier League, starting 21 matches. According to Turkish outlet Sporx, Besiktas football director Önder Özen has held talks with the winger's agent and is eager for a final decision.
Competition from Saudi Arabia and World Cup focus
Besiktas face competition from Saudi Arabian club Al-Diraiyah, who are also interested in Trossard. However, the Belgian has indicated he does not want to enter negotiations with any club until after the World Cup. Belgium face Senegal on Wednesday for a place in the last 16. Trossard has started all three of Belgium's World Cup matches, scoring twice in a 5-1 thrashing of New Zealand that secured their place in the last 32.
Despite the delay, Besiktas remain confident of completing the deal. Arsenal are believed to be in the market for a right back, central midfielder, left winger, and a forward this summer. Bradley Barcola is a name of interest, but Paris Saint-Germain have no intention of letting the France international leave despite their move for Yan Diomande.
