Arsenal reject late bid for Leandro Trossard - Ornstein

Cameron Smith

• Updated: 2 Sept 2024 12:10 BST
• 3 min read

Arsenal have turned down a verbal offer from Al-Ittihad for Belgium international Leandro Trossard, according to David Ornstein.

The arrival of Raheem Sterling on loan from Chelsea has raised question marks over Trossard’s future in north London, but Mikel Arteta is determined to keep hold of the 29-year-old.

News of Al-Ittihad’s shock approach for Trossard was revealed by Fabrizio Romano, who posted on X: “Saudi side Al Ittihad submit proposal in the region of €35 million for Leandro Trossard.

READ MORE: Saudi Pro League summer transfers 2024 - All the Done Deals

“Decision up to Arsenal as he’s always been an important player for Arteta.

“Official proposal arrives ahead of Saudi Pro League deadline, as Al Ittihad keep looking for new winger.”

The Athletic’s David Ornstein has now shed light on the situation by admitting that Al-Ittihad’s verbal offer was rejected by Arsenal yesterday.

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The informal bid was reportedly formed of a €5m loan fee, with an obligation-to-buy clause worth between €20-25m. However, Arsenal made it clear that Trossard is not for sale.

The Belgian is seen as a key member of Arteta’s squad, while the Gunners’ inability to sign a replacement also played a role in why Al-Ittihad failed in their pursuit.

The Saudi Pro League summer transfer window will slam shut at 22:00 BST on 2 September, meaning Al-Ittihad have less than 12 hours to find an alternative to Trossard.

Leandro Trossard at Arsenal

Trossard has spent the past 18 months at Arsenal and he has 19 goals and 12 assists in just 71 Gunners appearances - averaging a goal contribution every 111 minutes since joining the club from Brighton & Hove Albion.

Mykhailo Mudryk was Arsenal’s first-choice target during the January 2023 transfer window, but Chelsea won the race for his signature and Arteta’s side signed Trossard instead.

Since then, the Belgian has emerged as one of Arsenal’s most clutch players.