Arsenal - Emmanuel Petit
Image credit: Getty Images
Former Arsenal midfielder Emmanuel Petit has urged the Gunners to launch a bid for Real Madrid winger Rodrygo, claiming the Brazilian would bring “something great” to Mikel Arteta’s team.
Arsenal, now under the leadership of new sporting director Andrea Berta, are actively looking to bolster their attacking options following two largely quiet transfer windows. Strengthening the forward line is a top priority, with the north London club targeting both a prolific No.9 and a wide attacker ahead of the 2025/26 season.
While Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyökeres and RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Šeško remain top targets for the central striker role, Arsenal are also exploring opportunities to add quality out wide. According to reports, the club has held preliminary talks over a potential move for Rodrygo, who endured a frustrating spell at Real Madrid last season.
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Spanish media outlets suggest Los Blancos could be open to selling the 23-year-old if they receive an offer in the region of €80 million (£67.5 million). However, Rodrygo’s situation appears to have improved under new manager Xabi Alonso. The forward is reportedly feeling “positive” again, and his agent and father, Eric Goes, is currently unwilling to entertain negotiations while Madrid compete in the FIFA Club World Cup.
Arsenal - Rodrygo
Rodrygo (Image credit: Getty Images)
Petit, speaking to talkSPORTBET, spoke highly of Rodrygo’s qualities and backed the Brazilian to thrive in the Premier League.
“I love Rodrygo as a player,” said the 1998 World Cup winner. “It’s been difficult for him in the last two seasons with Vinícius Júnior nearly winning the Ballon d’Or and being the main player, but Rodrygo still did very well alongside Vinícius and Jude Bellingham.
“He scores, assists, works hard, and shows humility, I think he would bring something great to Arsenal.”
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Petit also emphasised the need for Arsenal to make a major attacking signing this summer if they are serious about ending their trophy drought.
“Arsenal have to do something important. They need to splash a lot of money, there’s no choice. Benjamin Šeško is an option, Mohammed Kudus is another one, there’s Alexander Isak and Nico Williams, but all of them come with serious competition.”
“The biggest problem for Arsenal is perception. Players may believe in the club’s project, but they also want silverware. If that doesn’t come soon, it could hurt Arsenal in the transfer market.”
Rodrygo, who was named in Alonso’s starting XI for Real Madrid’s Club World Cup opener against Al Hilal, struggled to make an impact in the 1–1 draw and was substituted in the 65th minute.
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