By Bilal Ahmed
Arsenal have completed the signing of Greece international forward Christos Tzolis from Club Brugge for a fee of £34m. The 24-year-old has joined the Premier League champions on what is described as a long-term contract. This transfer marks a return to the Premier League for Tzolis, who previously played for Norwich City.
Tzolis arrives in north London following a successful period with Club Brugge, where he was voted Player of the Year in Greece. During his time with the Belgian club, he scored 43 goals and provided 45 assists in 108 appearances. Last season, he was directly involved in 40 goals in the league, contributing 17 goals and 23 assists, as Club Brugge secured the league title.
The forward’s influence extended beyond direct goal contributions. He created 135 chances, more than any other player in Belgium’s top flight, and also recorded 359 progressive carries and 40 successful dribbles. Tzolis also demonstrated his ability in European competitions, scoring against Atalanta and Atletico Madrid in the Champions League, and providing an assist against Barcelona.
Player Profile and Versatility
Andrea Berta, Arsenal’s sporting director, described Tzolis as an “extremely versatile attacking player” who primarily operates on the left wing but is comfortable across the entire front line. Berta highlighted his finishing ability with both feet, his effectiveness in tight spaces, and his technical skill. Tzolis himself stated, “I’m a direct player, I go for goals or assists. That’s my point of view as an attacker, as a winger.”
Tzolis’s previous stint in the Premier League with Norwich City saw him make 30 appearances between 2021 and 2024, scoring three goals. He had loan spells at Twente and Fortuna Dusseldorf before joining Club Brugge. His debut in the Premier League was against Arsenal in September 2021, a match Norwich lost 1-0.
The 24-year-old discussed his conversation with Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta, describing it as a “nice conversation” where they discussed the club, his plans, and the team. Tzolis expressed his readiness for the demands of the Premier League, noting its physicality and high quality.
Impact and Expectations
Tzolis joins Arsenal following the departure of Belgium forward Leandro Trossard to Besiktas earlier this month. The fee paid for Tzolis is a record for the Belgian Pro League. He will wear the No 17 shirt for Arsenal.
His former assistant manager at Club Brugge, Hayk Milkon, noted Tzolis’s ability to fulfil different roles, particularly from the left side where he can move inside to attack space. Milkon also highlighted Tzolis’s consistent performance despite a demanding schedule, including playing in the Champions League every three or four days.
Tzolis expressed his excitement about joining Arsenal, stating, “It’s absolutely amazing to sign for such a big club, the champions of England. I’m very proud to be part of this team for the next season.” He looks forward to meeting his new teammates and playing at Emirates Stadium, where he made his Premier League debut.
The forward’s targets include winning titles and securing significant game time with the team. He believes that settling into the team and playing as much as possible will lead to success. Tzolis is looking forward to scoring his first goal at the Emirates.
Arsenal’s first five matches of the Premier League season include a home game against Coventry on August 21, an away fixture against Aston Villa on August 31, and a home match against Chelsea on September 6.
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Source: bbc.com
