Transfer: Merson Questions Arsenal’s Decision to Sell Trossard

Former Arsenal midfielder Paul Merson has criticised the club’s decision to sell Belgian forward Leandro Trossard to Turkish giants Besiktas, describing the transfer as poor business.

Trossard completed his move to the Turkish Super Lig side during the summer transfer window, ending his spell with the Gunners after playing an important role under manager Mikel Arteta.

Reacting to the transfer, Merson said Arsenal had allowed an experienced and influential player to leave for a fee he believes does not reflect the forward’s true value.

Writing in his Sky Sports column, the former England international questioned why no Premier League club attempted to sign the 31-year-old before his move to Turkey.

“For them to let Trossard go is not good business in my opinion – not for what you are selling,” Merson said.

“He went for literally nothing. I can’t believe that half the Premier League were not after Trossard.”

Merson praised the Belgian’s performances for Arsenal, particularly in high-profile matches, saying the forward consistently delivered when called upon.

“He played in all the big games for Arsenal last season, and he is a brilliant footballer,” he added.

The former Arsenal star distinguished between talented players and intelligent footballers, insisting Trossard belongs to the latter category.

“There are a lot of good players, but not a lot of good footballers out there. He came under that second category,” Merson said.

Trossard joined Arsenal from Brighton & Hove Albion and quickly became a reliable member of Arteta’s squad, contributing important goals and assists across domestic and European competitions.

Although he was not always a regular starter, the Belgian earned a reputation for making decisive impacts from both the starting lineup and the bench.

His versatility allowed him to play across the front line, providing Arsenal with valuable attacking options during injury setbacks and fixture congestion.

The move to Besiktas offers Trossard a fresh challenge after several successful seasons in English football.

Meanwhile, Arsenal continue to reshape their squad ahead of the new campaign as Arteta seeks to strengthen his team for another Premier League title challenge and an improved run in European competition.

Merson’s comments have added to the debate among supporters over whether Arsenal should have retained the experienced attacker or secured a higher transfer fee before sanctioning his departure.