In the midst of an already busy summer, Arsenal are sensing an opportunity to sign Rodrygo from Real Madrid.
Over the years, Arsenal have begun to make a habit of picking up some elite technicians who their Spanish counterparts were surprisingly willing to lose.
Arsenal signed Mesut Ozil and Martin Odegaard from Real Madrid when their careers in the Spanish capital were beginning to become difficult.
And now it seems as if the Gunners could repeat their trick in a deal for Rodrygo, who has seen his position in the squad somewhat reduced since last summer.
Arsenal want to sign Rodrygo this summer, and events at the upcoming Club World Cup could be crucial in terms of their chances — if the Brazilian isn’t a regular starter, he might end up on a plane to England.
Thierry Henry has already spotted Real Madrid’s Rodrygo mistake
That being said, Arsenal legend Thierry Henry has perhaps already pointed out why Arsenal would be making an excellent signing were they to land Rodrygo.
Speaking in November last year on CBS Sports whilst analysing Real Madrid in the Champions League, Henry concluded that Carlo Ancelotti’s side had lost their balance without Rodrygo in the side.
Rodrygo during Real Madrid's clash with Arsenal in the Champions League.
Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images
READ MORE: Benjamin Sesko ‘hugely frustrated’ by decision that could now jeopardise Arsenal move
The Brazilian lost his place in the starting eleven on occasion after the arrival of Kylian Mbappe, a signing which altered Real’s shape somewhat.
But Real’s loss could definitely be Arsenal’s gain this summer, and Henry would surely give his seal of approval if Mikel Arteta is able to land his man.
Analysing Real’s situation, Henry said: “Rodrygo was essential for them last year when they were losing the ball, he’s on the bench now.
“And I know maybe, he doesn’t have the efficiency of Vinicius Junior, that he had last year, but Rodrygo was balancing the team off the ball, now he’s not playing.
“So it’s going to be tough for Ancelotti to find a way to make sure that all those players can coexist.”
Arsenal are often accused of lacking balance themselves in attack given the reliance on Bukayo Saka on the right, and Rodrygo could definitely help solve that issue.
Is the writing on the wall for Gabriel Martinelli at Arsenal?
Although Arsenal want to give Gabriel Martinelli a new contract, the Brazilian might not be thrilled if his compatriot were to arrive this summer.
Martinelli was effective at times last season, but he perhaps lacked the consistency required to help push Arsenal to a league title.
Therefore, the Gunners are looking at wingers, and Arsenal have spoken to Nico Williams as well.
And whilst it would be odd for Martinelli to often start games on the bench, someone like Rodrygo arriving shouldn’t be seen as the end of the 23-year-old.
Martinelli still has so many important years ahead at the Emirates and Arteta has been crying out for more depth in attack.
And rather than Martinelli, it perhaps should be Leandro Trossard who is more concerned.