Topics: Leandro Trossard, Arsenal, Brighton and Hove Albion, English Premier League
The Gunners missed out on Mudryk and have thus shifted their focus toward an out-of-favor—but talented—player.

Arsenal, who are on the hunt for a new attacker following their unsuccessful pursuit of Mykhaylo Mudryk, have reportedly identified their next candidate and are said to be nearing a deal.

That player is none other than Leandro Trossard, the talented but out-of-favor Brighton ace who is nearing the end of his contract. While the Belgian ace isn't the North London giants' preferred target, he has contributed to 10 goals in 16 top-flight games and could help the Gunners lift the Premier League title this season.

The 28-year-old was one of the Seagulls' star players this campaign but has since fallen out with new head coach Roberto De Zerbi and has not featured for his current employers since their 4-2 loss to Arsenal.

On the other hand, Arteta is in dire need of reinforcement as Gabriel Martinelli, Bukayo Saka, Eddie Nketiah, and Emile Smith Rowe are his only attacking options — Gabriel Jesus is yet to return from the sidelines after suffering a serious knee injury at the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

While an agreement has not been reached, the well-known and reliable Fabrizio Romano reports that the talks are "very advanced" and that the Premier League leaders are keen on finalizing a long-term contract for the player very soon.

Fabrizio did not mention a fee but according to the Daily Mail, the Gunners wish to pay in the region of £20M ($25M) for the player. However, Brighton have the option to extend Leandro's current deal, which ends this summer, by an extra year and are thus holding out for £26M. Nonetheless, an agreement is possible.

Not every fan is in favor of this deal but with Arsenal competing in three competitions (the Premier League, Europa League, and FA Cup), Mikel is in desperate need of cover. As mentioned earlier, Mykhaylo Mudryk was the club's no.1 priority but a late hijack from Chelsea saw the Ukrainian sensation move to Stamford Bridge instead. The North London giants have been linked with the likes of Moussa Diaby and Raphinha since but neither is for sale in January.

Saka and Co. currently sit eight points clear at the top of the table and are preparing for a highly-anticipated weekend clash with Manchester United. Not only did the Red Devils slip up in their most recent fixture, drawing 1-1 at Crystal Palace, but Ten Hag's side will also be without Casemiro who is now suspended for this Emirates Stadium match.

And should Arsenal complete the deal for Trossard in time for Sunday's showdown, Gooners will enter that game with confidence and excitement.