Arsenal - Mikel Arteta
Image credit: Getty Images
Arsenal ’s pursuit of Real Madrid star Rodrygo has gained momentum, with reports suggesting the Brazilian winger may not feature prominently in new manager Xabi Alonso’s tactical plans. According to Goal.com and Real Madrid Confidencial, Rodrygo’s future at the Santiago Bernabéu is now under serious doubt, an opportunity the Gunners are keen to capitalise on.
Rodrygo, 24, has been a key part of Real Madrid’s squad since arriving from Santos in 2019, but the 2024/25 season proved to be a frustrating one. Despite registering 13 goals and 10 assists in 51 appearances across all competitions, he often found himself behind attacking trio Kylian Mbappé, Vinicius Jr., and Jude Bellingham. His omission from the Copa del Rey final against Barcelona and reported frustration with his role under former coach Carlo Ancelotti have further fuelled speculation about a summer exit.
The arrival of Xabi Alonso, who officially took over from Ancelotti on June 1, has added fresh uncertainty. Multiple reports suggest Alonso may deploy a system that prioritises a front two, likely Mbappé and Vinicius Jr., leaving Rodrygo sidelined in a 3-5-2 or 4-4-2 formation.Football365 reports the Brazilian is “growing concerned” about his role under Alonso, especially with Real Madrid said to be open to offers in the €80–100 million range.
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Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is a long-time admirer of Rodrygo and reportedly sees him as a “dream signing” to elevate the club’s attacking options. After finishing second in the Premier League for three consecutive seasons, the Gunners are determined to strengthen their frontline. Sky Sports notes that Rodrygo is among Arsenal’s top targets for the left-wing position, alongside Spain’s Nico Williams and Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers.
Xabi Alonso has been looking to play a 4-4-2 with Vinicius and Mbappe up front, and the full-backs – Alexander-Arnold – offering most of the width, as it becomes a 3-4-1-2 at Real Madrid.
This is why Rodrygo is available for transfer this month.
[@MiguelDelaney] pic.twitter.com/s7tRbTVJdE
— now.arsenal (@now_arsenaI) June 12, 2025
Andrea Berta, Arsenal’s newly appointed sporting director, has already made initial contact with Rodrygo’s representatives. Sources claim that the player’s family is frustrated with his reduced minutes at Madrid. Despite a €1 billion release clause and a contract that runs until 2028, Hand of Arsenal and journalistMario Cortegana report that Arsenal are willing to make a “big financial offer” should Real Madrid make Rodrygo available.
However, challenges remain. While Arsenal are believed to have tabled an informal €70 million bid, Madrid’s valuation is closer to €100 million. Moreover, Marca reports that Rodrygo has expressed a desire to remain at the club and fight for his place under Alonso. A recent Instagram post from the player, captioned “Happy” following talks with the new coach, suggests he may be leaning towards staying.
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Another stumbling block is Rodrygo’s wage demands, reported to be in the region of £300,000 per week, figures Arsenal are currently reluctant to match, according to Sky Germany.
Still, Arsenal’s interest appears to be the most advanced among Premier League clubs, ahead of Liverpool, Manchester United, and Manchester City. Key figures at the Emirates both in the boardroom and in the dressing room are said to have made direct overtures to Rodrygo in an effort to lure him to North London.
Arsenal target Rodrygo
Real Madrid star Rodrygo (Image credit: Getty Images)
Xabi Alonso’s final decision on Rodrygo’s role will be pivotal. While he praised the winger as a “spectacular player” during his unveiling, reports suggest his preferred system may not accommodate Rodrygo in a regular starting role. The arrival of Argentine wonderkid Franco Mastantuono, another left-sided attacker could further limit opportunities.
For Arsenal, securing Rodrygo would be a major statement of intent in their bid to challenge Liverpool and Manchester City for the Premier League title. His ability to operate across the front line, combined with high-level experience and technical quality, would make him a direct competitor to Gabriel Martinelli and a valuable complement to Bukayo Saka on the opposite flank.
With the summer transfer window now open and set to resume again on June 16 due to Club World Cup adjustments, Arsenal will be hoping to press their advantage in the coming weeks.
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