Arsenal leading race for Christos Tzolis after Leandro Trossard exit

Arsenal have strengthened their interest in Club Brugge winger Christos Tzolis following Leandro Trossard's departure to Beşiktaş, with the Greece international reportedly making the Gunners his preferred destination.

The Premier League champions have already made contact with Club Brugge over the 24-year-old, while Atlético Madrid, Roma and Borussia Dortmund are also monitoring his situation. However, Arsenal are currently the only club understood to have approached the Belgian side.

Reports from Belgium and Greece suggest Tzolis has made his intentions clear by prioritising a move to the Emirates Stadium.

Greek journalist Dimitris Manakos claims the winger has wanted Arsenal from the outset, a stance that has reportedly impressed Mikel Arteta.

According to the report, Arteta appreciates the player's commitment "enormously" and has been "truly impressed" by Tzolis' desire to join Arsenal despite interest from several other European clubs.

While Arsenal have yet to submit a formal offer, negotiations are expected to progress in the coming days.

Convincing Club Brugge to sell may prove the biggest obstacle.

The Belgian champions are reportedly seeking a fee higher than the €37.5 million they received from AC Milan for Charles De Ketelaere, which remains the club's record sale.

Club Brugge also rejected a €32 million bid from Crystal Palace last summer, underlining their determination to maximise Tzolis' value after an outstanding campaign.

The Greek winger finished last season with an impressive return of 22 goals and 29 assists, making him one of Europe's most productive wide attackers.

Arsenal are expected to decide whether to follow up their initial approach with a formal offer. With Tzolis keen on the move and Club Brugge open to selling for the right price, negotiations could accelerate if the Gunners are prepared to meet the Belgian club's valuation.

Is Christos Tzolis the ideal replacement for Leandro Trossard at Arsenal?