Arsenal have reportedly accepted a €20 million (£17.2 million) offer from Turkish giants Beşiktaş for Belgian forward Leandro Trossard, but the transfer is far from complete as the player has decided to postpone making a final decision until after Belgium’s 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign.
The proposed deal marks one of the biggest developments involving Arsenal’s summer transfer business, with Beşiktaş eager to strengthen their squad before the upcoming UEFA Champions League qualifying rounds.
However, despite both clubs reportedly agreeing on the transfer fee, the final outcome now rests entirely with Trossard, who wants to focus fully on international duty before deciding his club future.
Trossard Prioritises Belgium’s World Cup Campaign
Sources indicate that the Belgian international has temporarily paused all transfer discussions as he concentrates on helping Belgium during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
While Beşiktaş are pushing for a quick resolution, Trossard believes now is not the right time to make a career-defining decision. The experienced winger is expected to revisit his future once Belgium’s tournament comes to an end.
This delay has left the Turkish club waiting anxiously, especially as they hope to register new signings ahead of crucial European fixtures.
Saudi Club Al-Diraiyah Enters the Race
Complicating matters further is growing interest from Saudi Arabian side Al-Diraiyah, who are reportedly willing to match Arsenal’s asking price while offering Trossard significantly higher wages than Beşiktaş.
Reports suggest the Saudi club’s financial package is considerably more lucrative, making them a serious contender should the Belgian decide that a move away from the Premier League is the right step.
Despite the financial attraction, Trossard is believed to prefer remaining in European football if the sporting project matches his ambitions.
Arsenal Open to Selling the Belgian
Arsenal’s willingness to accept the offer comes as manager Mikel Arteta continues reshaping his attacking options.
Trossard has been a valuable squad player since arriving from Brighton & Hove Albion in January 2023. His versatility, ability to play across the front line and knack for scoring important goals have made him a useful option for the Gunners.
Last season, he featured regularly in domestic and European competitions, contributing important goals and assists as Arsenal challenged for major honours. Nevertheless, with only a limited period remaining on his current contract and Arsenal expected to strengthen their attack this summer, the club appears prepared to cash in while his market value remains high.
Beşiktaş Want the Deal Completed Quickly
The Turkish giants have identified Trossard as one of their marquee transfer targets and are keen to complete the move before the new season begins.
Club officials have reportedly held positive discussions with Arsenal and are now awaiting the player’s response.
Beşiktaş believe Trossard’s experience in the Premier League and on the international stage would significantly improve their attacking quality as they prepare for both domestic and European competitions.
However, the longer negotiations drag on, the greater the risk of another club stepping in with an attractive offer.
What Happens Next?
For now, everything depends on Trossard.
The Belgian international is expected to make his decision after Belgium’s World Cup campaign concludes, allowing him to fully assess offers from Beşiktaş, Al-Diraiyah and any other interested clubs.
If he accepts Beşiktaş’s proposal, Arsenal will receive around €20 million for a player entering the latter stages of his contract. If he chooses Saudi Arabia instead, the Gunners would likely receive a similar transfer fee, while the player would benefit from a far more lucrative salary package.
Should Trossard reject both offers, he could remain at Arsenal and compete for his place under Arteta, although increased competition for attacking positions may reduce his playing time if the club signs another winger during the transfer window.
With the clubs having already agreed terms, football fans now await Trossard’s final decision, which is expected shortly after Belgium’s World Cup campaign comes to an end. His choice could become one of the biggest transfer stories of the summer as Arsenal continue to reshape their squad ahead of the new season.
