Arsenal plan new contract for criticised star with 'talks ongoing' despite Edu news

Arsenal are said to be preparing a new contract for one of their key first team players. It has been a frustrating start to the season for the Gunners, who already find themselves nine points behind leaders Liverpool heading into the final international window of 2024.

While there is still plenty of time remaining, the title race is getting away from Mikel Arteta’s men, who are going to need to hit the ground running after the break while hoping Liverpool hit a sticky patch at some point. But while Arsenal plot to get back to their best on the grass, they must also take care of business off the pitch.

That has been made a little more tricky with Edu resigning from his position as sporting director, leaving the Gunners searching for a replacement. Still, the work goes on, and there are some players in need of a new contract.

One of those is Leandro Trossard, whose current deal is set to expire in 2026. The Belgian has not enjoyed the best of seasons so far, struggling for consistency despite some positive performances when he initially filled in for the Martin Odegaard.

Despite that, Arteta remains a big fan of the 29-year-old’s, and it looks as though a new contract will be handed out. According to Football Insider, ‘talks are ongoing’ between Arsenal and Trossard as they look to thrash out a new deal.

It’s reported that West Ham would be interested in snatching away the attacking midfielder if a deal is not agreed, while there is also talk of interest from Saudi Arabia. Arsenal, meanwhile, remain protected given the current contract is in place for another 18 months or so.

Trossard on Chelsea display

Trossard struggled after coming off the bench against Chelsea last time out, missing key chances and garnering criticism for his display. Speaking to The Mirror after the game, the Belgian rejected claims that Arsenal have taken a more defensive approach this season.

"No, we don't have that mindset [defensive tactics] going into games, but every game has a different outcome," he said. "If you go down to ten men, or you're at a tough place and only 1-0 up, then you have to manage games. We've been really good at that.

"From the moment Mikel [Arteta] was at Arsenal, it showed that he wanted to play out from the back, get in good positions in the box and play football. There's no instruction to play cautious. It all depends on the game state. Sometimes you have to do that. We need more goals. We know that. Everyone is working hard. At one point, it will click. We will do everything in our power to make that time this Sunday [versus Chelsea]."