Rio Ferdinand has tipped Christos Tzolis to be Arsenal’s signing of the season after being impressed by the winger’s early impact at the Emirates. Arsenal spent heavily during the summer after winning their first Premier League title in more than two decades, but Ferdinand believes their £34m move for Tzolis from Club Brugge could prove to be the best piece of business.
Key highlights
- Rio Ferdinand has named Christos Tzolis his early signing-of-the-season pick for value.
- Arsenal paid around £34m-£35m to sign the Greek winger from Club Brugge.
- Theo Walcott has compared Tzolis’ style to former Arsenal star Alexis Sanchez.
- Ferdinand believes Arsenal’s summer business has left them well-equipped to defend their Premier League title.
Ferdinand backs Tzolis as signing of the season
Speaking on his YouTube channel, the former England captain singled out the 24-year-old for his technical ability and decision-making in the final third. “Who is the best signing of the transfer window? From what I’ve seen so far, I’m going to go for Tzolis,” Ferdinand said.
Ferdinand also backed Tzolis to become his signing of the season in terms of value, praising Arsenal’s recruitment team for securing the deal. He added: “For the price you got him for, £35m, from what I’ve seen, jinky little winger, great vision, making good decisions in the final third.”
Arteta strengthens Arsenal for title defence
Arsenal did not stand still after finally ending their long wait for a Premier League title, with Mikel Arteta overseeing an ambitious summer rebuild. The Gunners spent nearly £200m, adding depth, physicality and quality across the squad.
“They’ve spent big and I think they’ve spent brilliantly well,” Ferdinand said. “I think they’ve strengthened, they’ve looked stronger, they’ve bought more physicality, and a little bit of guile with Tzolis coming in.”
Ferdinand has already been impressed by the Greek winger, describing him as “really, really sharp and really bright” and a bargain at his reported price. He also highlighted Ezri Konza as another important addition, praising the centre-back as a reliable player capable of featuring regularly.
Tzolis draws Alexis Sanchez comparisons
Tzolis’ impressive season-opening display has already generated plenty of excitement, with former Arsenal winger Theo Walcott comparing the Greek international to Alexis Sanchez. Walcott pointed to Tzolis’ direct approach and positive first touch as similarities between the two wingers.
That combination could give Arteta another option on the left, blending the technical qualities associated with Leandro Trossard with some of Sanchez’s explosiveness. Ferdinand also believes the deal represents excellent value in a transfer market where prices continue to rise.
Arsenal balance departures with new arrivals
Arsenal have also reshaped their squad through a series of notable departures. Gabriel Martinelli joined Al-Hilal for £56m, while Gabriel Jesus moved to Barcelona for £8.6m. Trossard, Jakub Kiwior, Fabio Vieira and Christian Norgaard also left the club. Those exits have allowed Arteta to further refine his squad ahead of the demanding title defence.
With the balance between arrivals and departures, Ferdinand believes Arsenal have put themselves in a strong position for the season ahead. “Arteta and his Arsenal team will be very quietly pleased with the business that they’ve done.”
