Tzolis unfazed by Vini Jr speculation as Arsenal winger proves his mettle

The £34m signing from Club Brugge made his case early with a well-taken finish on his debut against Girona, but the speculation around Arsenal's pursuit of the Real Madrid winger has done nothing to shake his confidence.

"I'm thinking how to improve and settle as fast as possible," Tzolis told Sky Sports during Arsenal's pre-season camp in Spain. "It's a chance to play directly from the beginning – and then it's up to me to show the qualities and what I can bring."

The 24-year-old Greek winger, who recorded 51 goal contributions in 52 games last season, emphasises that his approach will remain unchanged under Mikel Arteta. "He doesn't want me to do things differently than I did at Club Brugge," said Tzolis. "I need to be myself and show on the pitch all the passion and desire to win."

Away from the pitch, Tzolis has already made an impression: he topped Arsenal's demanding pre-season fitness test, a gruelling 1.4km run combining sprints of 20, 40 and 60 metres. The feat earned him the nickname 'Leonidas' from one of Arsenal's fitness coaches – a nod to his preparation at Brugge before joining.

Arteta reportedly believes Tzolis can become a cult hero at the Emirates in the mould of departing Leandro Trossard. The winger's directness, creativity and work rate will be key to winning over supporters while the club weighs its attacking options.