Leandro Trossard’s Arsenal chapter appears to be closing. Besiktas have struck an agreement in principle worth 20 million euros, split between an 18 million euro guaranteed fee and two million in add-ons. Personal terms, however, still need finishing touches.
The Belgian forward enjoyed a superb campaign under Mikel Arteta. He contributed eight goals and eleven assists as Arsenal claimed their first Premier League title since 2004. One moment stood out above the rest. His late winner at West Ham in May helped preserve a crucial gap over Manchester City during the run-in.
Contract timing pushed this move forward. Trossard signed an improved deal last August, yet his expiry date stayed fixed for next summer. Arsenal, understandably, want value now rather than risking a free departure later. Selling while demand exists makes financial sense, even for a player who delivered so consistently.
Besiktas, meanwhile, view this signing as transformative. They see Trossard bringing composure, creativity and leadership to a squad chasing silverware domestically. Few recent arrivals in the Süper Lig carry this level of proven pedigree.
Terms Still Being Ironed Out
Despite the fee being settled, work remains before any announcement lands officially. Sources in Turkey indicate representatives are travelling to finalise wages, believed to sit close to nine million euros annually. That figure alone signals serious ambition from the Istanbul club.
Confidence within Besiktas remains high nonetheless. Negotiations have progressed steadily, and nothing suggests a collapse looms. A four-year contract reportedly awaits Trossard once terms get confirmed, giving him long-term security in a new footballing culture.
For Arsenal, attention now shifts toward replacing his output. Gabriel Martinelli currently stands as the only recognised option on that flank, leaving Arteta with an urgent recruitment task before deadline day arrives. Expect fresh wide forward targets to emerge quickly.
Follow every twist of this transfer saga through our ongoing coverage. Additional financial detail on the structure comes via The Athletic.