The Ajax man has been mentioned in connection with a move to England since impressing for Ghana at last year's World Cup, with Arsenal one of several clubs to have been credited with an interest in his signature. The north Londoners have also been linked with a move for Southampton midfielder Romeo Lavia but would prefer to sign Kudus as they feel that he would be a better fit, according to The Independent.
It is said that the Ajax man would be Arteta's favoured option through the middle next season, which suggests that Trossard will not be given the chance to prove his worth in a central role for the foreseeable future. The Belgian can play on both wings and as a striker but has made no secret of his desire to eventually become Arsenal's creative midfielder over the last few months.
"It helps me that I'm versatile and that I can play in different positions," said Trossard following his move to Arsenal from Brighton in January. "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."
Arsenal are well-stocked in the central attacking midfield role at present, with Martin Odegaard likely to continue as Arteta's first-choice starter in the position next season. They have also improved their ranks with the recent signing of Kai Havertz, who was primarily used as a striker by Chelsea but can be deployed in a variety of roles at the top end of the pitch.
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More infoThe arrival of Kudus would add further quality to Arsenal's range of attacking options, although it remains to be seen whether he can be snapped up by the Gunners between now and the end of the summer window.
Ajax are thought to value their man at around £40million but sporting director Sven Mislintat has already indicated that their asking price will continue to rise if no bids are tabled over the coming weeks.
"There are clubs that have informally enquired about him," he told Algemeen Dagblad when quizzed on Kudus' current situation. "I don’t expect an offer very soon, although you know that things can be different in the football world. Perhaps the interest is not as serious as everyone thinks.
"It is important for us that the relationship with the players remains good. This can be done by being transparent and applying good principles. As we get closer to the deadline, the transfer fee, for example, goes up. There is no fixed deadline, but there are agreements we must have to get replacements if we have not already done so proactively."
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