Arsenal on verge of signing Club Brugge’s Christos Tzolis
By BBC, July 16, 2026Arsenal have reached a verbal agreement with Belgian side Club Brugge to sign Greek winger Christos Tzolis in a deal worth €40 million (approximately Ksh 6 billion) as Mikel Arteta continues to strengthen his squad ahead of the new season.
The transfer fee, which is equivalent to around £33.9 million (Ksh5 billion), is yet to be followed by a formal bid from Arsenal. However, the move is understood to be a formality, with personal terms already agreed in principle.
Once Arsenal submit the official offer, Tzolis is expected to undergo a medical before signing a long-term contract at the Emirates Stadium.
The 24-year-old emerged as Arsenal’s preferred option following the departure of Belgian international Leandro Trossard to Turkish side Besiktas. The Gunners moved quickly to secure a replacement, with sporting director Andrea Berta leading negotiations.
Berta is said to have intensified Arsenal’s pursuit after his assistant, Maurizio Micheli, watched Tzolis in action for Greece during their international fixture against Sweden last month.
The winger impressed with his direct style of play, creativity and attacking threat, convincing Arsenal that he would provide quality depth and competition in the final third.
Despite the imminent arrival of Tzolis, Arsenal remain determined to sign another high-profile forward before the transfer window closes.
The north London club retains a long-standing interest in Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez, who remains their priority attacking target.
However, Barcelona and Real Madrid are also keen on signing the Argentina international, setting up a potential transfer battle.
Arsenal are also monitoring Aston Villa star Morgan Rogers, who is viewed as the club’s preferred option for a versatile attacking role.
Talks are expected to accelerate once Rogers completes his FIFA World Cup campaign with England. However, Aston Villa are reportedly demanding £130 million (approximately Ksh22.5 billion) for the forward, a valuation that could complicate negotiations.
Should Arsenal fail to strike a deal with Villa, Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola has been identified as the leading alternative.