Arsenal are closing in on a agreeing a new contract with forward Leandro Trossard.
Trossard has been linked with a move to the Saudi Pro League, but Arsenal appear ready to keep him beyond his current deal.
While that may seem like a safe move, it comes with serious risks. His output has dropped this season, and his performances are no longer convincing.
The winger has scored just eight goals in the Premier League. The 30-year-old is unlikely to regain the sharpness he once had.
Time for Arsenal to move on and back fresh options
Renewing Trossard’s contract could block progress in more ways than one. If he continues to dip in form, Arsenal will be stuck with an ageing squad player.
This may harm the balance of Arteta’s squad and limit younger players’ chances.
Gabriel Martinelli has also had a poor season, but he has time to improve. The former Brighton & Hove Albion star does not offer that same long-term value and may only decline further.
Arsenal’s academy continues to produce talent ready to step up. Keeping Trossard could block their path into the first team.
More importantly, Trossard is attracting interest from other clubs. This gives Arsenal the chance to sell him and raise funds to improve their squad.
That money could help bring in a younger, more consistent attacker. If Arsenal want to close the gap on their rivals, they must make bolder moves.
Trossard was a clever short-term signing, but his time has passed.
Arsenal must now focus on building for the future, not rewarding past contributions. Extending his stay would be a backwards step.
