Arsenal's deal to secure former Brighton forward Leandro Trossard was wrapped up in rapid time and the player's agent has shed light on how the Gunners completed the move so quickly.
In large part, Mikel Arteta's men simply did the opposite of their local rivals Tottenham, who were also keen on landing Trossard this month. In actual fact, it was Spurs who lodged a bid for the Belgian first, but their offer of £12million was quickly rejected by the Seagulls who expected more than double.
That is almost exactly what they got from Spurs' rivals, with Arsenal agreeing a £27m fee for Trossard last Wednesday and player training with his new team-mates on Friday.
Speaking to the media on Saturday, Trossard's agent Josy Comhair shed light on the differences between the way the two North London rivals went about their business.
"Spurs were in contact with us for the last two weeks. But it was we want him, but wait this, wait that. Wednesday we got in touch with Arsenal - 24 hours later they had an agreement."
It is clear that while Trossard may have been Arsenal's back-up plan, having been pipped to the signing of Mykhaylo Mudryk by Chelsea, Arteta is a huge admirer of the former Brighton ace and confessed he was a player the Gunners had on the radar for some time prior to his arrival.
HAVE YOUR SAY! Will Trossard be a successful signing for Arsenal? Comment below
The Spaniard admitted he expects the 28-year-old to be able to have an immediate impact on proceedings as Arsenal gear up for a huge Sunday showdown with Manchester United at the Emirates.
Due to the speed in which Arsenal got the transfer completed, it looks like Trossard will be eligible to feature against the Red Devils.
Versatile across the front-line, Trossard can deputise for any one of Arsenal's current first-choice front three as the man himself explained following confirmation of the switch.
The Belgium international told the Arsenal website: "It helps me that I’m versatile and that I can play in different positions. They’re looking forward to working with me and vice versa. I’m really excited to work with them and I think Mikel is a top coach.
"I like to be in the pocket behind the striker. On the wings, I can explore myself as well. I’m comfortable in either of those positions but if I were to choose, behind the striker – but it all depends on the system.
"I think I’m good in 1v1s. I’m composed in the box, so if I get chances, I can finish them off. I can hopefully help the team to win tough games – I’m great in tight spaces."
