Leandro Trossard 'makes Arsenal request' as Saudi come calling for attacker

Leandro Trossard has reportedly rejected a potential move to the Saudi Pro League, instead seeking a new contract with the Gunners. The Belgian international was targeted by Al-Ittihad for a loan deal during the summer transfer window, with an obligation to make the deal permanent.

Despite Arsenal dismissing the late approach, the Saudis maintained their interest in Trossard and were eager to negotiate a £40million agreement in the new year. However, any chance of a deal has now been dashed, as Trossard is keen to remain with the Gunners and aid their Premier League title chase, while also seeking a three-year extension to his current contract, which still has 18 months remaining, according to the Mirror.

The forward celebrated his 30th birthday on Wednesday with a lively party after being subbed on for the final 20 minutes of the 2-0 victory over Manchester United at the Emirates Stadium. Arsenal acquired Trossard from Brighton in January 2023 in a deal potentially worth £27m with add-ons, after losing out to Chelsea in the race for Ukrainian Mykhailo Mudryk.

Trossard had previously joined the Seagulls from Belgian team Genk for approximately £15m in the summer of 2019. Arsenal’s interest in West Ham winger Mohammed Kudus, 24, prompted Al-Ittihad to reconsider the possibility of securing Trossard.

However, Kudus, who has an £85m release clause active next summer, remains a target for the Gunners, with Liverpool and Newcastle also keeping tabs on the Ghanaian star.