Arsenal have wrapped up a £34 million deal for Christos Tzolis, and the club is now pushing hard to bring Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers to north London. The move for the Greece international was finalized earlier this week, sources confirmed, while talks over a potential transfer for Rogers have accelerated in recent days.
Why the club moved fast for Tzolis
The 23-year-old winger had been on Arsenal’s radar for months. Tzolis, who spent last season on loan at Fortuna Düsseldorf, impressed with his pace and creativity on the flank. The £34 million fee — a club record for a player from the Greek league — reflects the club’s belief that he can slot into Mikel Arteta’s system immediately. The deal includes add-ons that could push the total to £40 million.
The price tag for Rogers
Aston Villa have set a valuation between £70 million and £130 million for Morgan Rogers, according to people close to the negotiations. The 22-year-old attacking midfielder has been a standout performer for Villa this season, drawing interest from several Premier League sides. Arsenal’s pursuit comes as they look to add depth behind Martin Ødegaard and Kai Havertz.
Rogers’s versatility — he can play on either wing or behind the striker — makes him a priority target. Villa, however, are under no pressure to sell. The club has already rejected an initial approach from Arsenal, sources said, and is holding out for a fee closer to the top end of the range.
What’s next for the transfer window
Arsenal’s summer spending is far from over. The club has already committed over £150 million in fees this window, including the Tzolis deal and earlier signings for Declan Rice and Jurriën Timber. Whether they can afford the Rogers price tag will depend on outgoings. Kieran Tierney and Folarin Balogun are among the players expected to depart, which could free up funds.
Talks between the two clubs are expected to continue into next week. Villa have not set a firm deadline, but Arsenal will need to move quickly if they want to land Rogers before the season starts. The transfer window closes on August 31.
