Arsenal complete £34m signing of Christos Tzolis from Club Brugge
Sporting director Andrea Berta highlights versatility and technical ability as the Premier League champions address squad needs following Leandro Trossard’s departure.
Arsenal have finalised the acquisition of Greek forward Christos Tzolis from Club Brugge for a reported fee of £34m. The 24-year-old has agreed to a long-term contract with the Premier League champions, arriving at the club following the recent departure of Belgium international Leandro Trossard to Besiktas.
The transfer sees Tzolis return to the Premier League after three seasons in Belgium, where he established himself as a key contributor. In 108 appearances for Club Brugge over the last three seasons, the forward recorded 43 goals and provided 45 assists. His previous stint in English football occurred between 2021 and 2024 with Norwich City, where he made 30 appearances and scored three goals, including loan spells at Dutch side Twente and German club Fortuna Dusseldorf.
Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta described Tzolis as an "extremely versatile attacking player" who naturally operates on the left flank but is comfortable across the entire front line. Berta emphasised the player's technical attributes, noting that he is an excellent finisher with both feet who thrives in tight spaces. The sporting director added that Tzolis’ statistical output and mentality would raise the technical level of the squad while bringing positive energy to the team.
Tzolis, who began his career at PAOK, stated that he had a "nice conversation" with Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta regarding the club’s plans and his potential role within the squad. The forward described himself as a direct player focused on goals and assists, noting his willingness to contribute defensively as well. He made his Premier League debut for Norwich City in a 1-0 defeat at Arsenal in September 2021.
The signing represents a strategic move to reinforce Arsenal’s attacking depth. While the exact duration of the long-term contract and the precise breakdown of the £34m fee were not specified, the acquisition addresses the vacancy left by Trossard. The club also noted that defender William Saliba is set to miss an extended period due to a back injury, underscoring the importance of squad depth across all positions.
