The positives & negatives of Arsenal’s move for Leandro Trossard

A transfer surprise from the seaside.

While Mykhaylo Mudryk’s dramatic west London switch continues to irk supporters, Arsenal have put the debacle firmly behind them and completed a deal for unfavoured Brighton forward Leandro Trossard.

The move represents a rare Gunners foray into the January market but should bolster our options as we approach the business end of the campaign. Trossard, meanwhile, will no doubt relish the chance to escape Amex ostracization and contribute towards a historic title challenge.

Positives and negatives as Arsenal complete unexpected move for Leandro Trossard

However, many will question club ambitions and ponder if economic frugality is taking precedence over long-term sporting interests, with the Belgian international’s bargain-price availability perhaps the strongest motivation for our winter pursuit.

Pressure is already building for the new signing to prove his worth, and here are three viewpoints to consider about this unexpected investment.

#1 Positive: A good player with plenty to offer

He may not belong in the world-class bracket, but Trossard remains a very good attacker who adds another offensive string to the Arsenal bow.

The 28-year-old arrives from the possession-based Seagulls and is therefore familiar with the half-space responsibilities he will assume under Mikel Arteta. He is both a capable finisher and an efficient creator in the final third and combines sharp movement with excellent close control to fashion goal-scoring opportunities.

Trossard also links up well with teammates and can pull off powerful shots on either foot, with impressive strikes against Man City and Liverpool this season also demonstrating his ability to deliver on the biggest stages.

A lack of physicality and struggles in isolated situations suggest he does not tick every box, but Trossard still provides a fantastic option off the bench and should be a solid addition.

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