Arteta told Arsenal ‘top signing’ has been better than £89m target he wanted in January

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Former Arsenal defender Matthew Upson believes Leandro Trossard has proven himself to be a far better player than Chelsea ace Mykhailo Mudryk.

Arsenal signed Leandro Trossard from Brighton and Hove Albion for £27 million late on in the January transfer window, having missed out on their initial target, Mykhailo Mudryk.

Mikel Arteta and sporting director Edu chased Mudryk throughout the winter window, coming close to getting a deal done for £80 million, as reported by The Guardian. However, the Ukrainian winger ultimately ended up joining Chelsea for £88.5 million. 

Mudryk’s switch to Stamford Bridge forced the Gunners to consider alternative targets. This sparked their efforts to secure the services of Trossard. Looking back, Arteta will feel that plan B has paid off handsomely.

Trossard has proven to be a fantastic addition to the Arsenal squad since his arrival at the Emirates Stadium. His versatility allows him to be utilised anywhere across the front line, and the 28-year-old has been remarkably productive in the final third.

With 36 appearances for the north London club now under his belt, across all competitions, the Belgian forward has racked up seven goals and twelve assists. 

In West London, meanwhile, Mudryk has struggled to establish himself at Chelsea. The 22-year-old has contributed just two goals and two assists in 28 outings for the Blues. 

Arsenal winners with Leandro Trossard after losing out on Mykhailo Mudryk

Whilst Mudryk may have youth on his side, and no shortage of talent, his lack of end product and huge price tag make it hard to deem him a successful signing at this stage. Trossard has to go down as a bargain, though.

Trossard made another telling contribution last time out, making Arsenal history with his goal against Burnley.

Matthew Upson believes that Arsenal should be delighted to have Trossard at the club rather than Mudryk. Speaking to Premier League Productions, he said, “Trossard has made a great contribution, showing his versatility again. What a signing he has been from Brighton. I really do believe he has been a top signing for Arsenal, a really good finisher as well.”

“For me, they’ve got a better player for a lot less money [comparing to Mudryk]. I think he’s possibly the best finisher at the club. Technically, when you have a look at his goals, left and right foot, in and around the edge of the box, he’s very accurate, very clinical.”