Mikel Arteta told key target 'only wants Arsenal' as second signing edges closer

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Matthew Judge | Editor

Christos Tzolis has turned down approaches from rival clubs in favour of joining Arsenal, according to transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano.

BBC Sport reported on Tuesday that Arsenal are ready to press ahead with plans to sign Tzolis from Belgian Pro League side Club Brugge.

The same publication claims the Gunners view Tzolis as an ideal replacement for Leandro Trossard following his €20million (£17m) move to Besiktas.

STATS

Christos Tzolis

F, M, AM (L)

Brugge

Christos Tzolis

F, M, AM (L)

Brugge

All Tournaments

2025/26

• 52

  Games

• 22

  Goals

• 29

  Assists

View all stats

BBC Sport also understands Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta is driving the pursuit of Tzolis, who is valued at around €35m (£30m).

And now according to transfer guru Romano, Tzolis has made it clear that he only wants to move to Mikel Arteta’s side this summer.

The Italian reporter claims the Greek international’s representatives have rebuffed proposals from other, unnamed clubs.

Tzolis joined Brugge from Norwich City in 2024 and has scored 43 goals in 108 games for the Belgian outfit.

The 24-year-old recorded 17 goals and 23 assists as Brugge won the Pro League and Super Cup double last season.

Arsenal still admire Rogers and Barcola despite Tzolis interest

As Arsenal step up their interest in Tzolis, BBC Sport claims the club will still try to sign a high-profile forward as well this summer.

The same outlet understands Arsenal’s primary target is Morgan Rogers, though The Telegraph claims Aston Villa value him at €152m (£130m) - a figure which may prove prohibitive.

BBC Sport also understands Premier League champions Arsenal hold an interest in signing Paris Saint-Germain star Bradley Barcola.

Arsenal have made one signing so far this summer following the acquisition of goalkeeper Illan Meslier on a free transfer.

The 26-year-old will act as David Raya’s back-up next season after moving to the Emirates Stadium following his exit from Leeds United.

Arsenal confirm Trossard departure to Besiktas

Arsenal have also been busy in regards to outgoings, with Jakub Kiwior and Karl Hein completing permanent moves to Porto and Werder Bremen respectively.

And in a post on their official X account, the north Londoners also confirmed Trossard’s move to Turkish giants Besiktas on Tuesday.

Trossard joined Arsenal from Brighton and Hove Albion in January 2023 and scored 36 goals in 174 appearances for Arteta's men.

The 31-year-old played a key role in the Gunners winning the Premier League title last season, scoring the winner in the decisive 1-0 victory at West Ham United in May.

Trossard also had a huge hand in Belgium reaching the quarter-finals of the World Cup, scoring two goals and recording three assists for his country this summer.