Arsenal - Rodrygo
Image credit: Getty Images
Real Madrid are reportedly open to the possibility of selling Brazilian forward Rodrygo Goes to Arsenal this summer, as Mikel Arteta looks to strengthen his attacking options ahead of the new season.
According to reports from Spain, the 24-year-old has emerged as a key target for the Gunners, with Arteta seeking a versatile wide forward to complement a new striker. Rodrygo is said to be on a shortlist that includes Newcastle’s Anthony Gordon, Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze, and Chelsea winger Noni Madueke.
Rodrygo enjoyed a productive 2023/24 campaign, recording 14 goals and 10 assists across all competitions. However, his performances under Carlo Ancelotti were often criticised for inconsistency, sparking debate over his long-term future at the Santiago Bernabéu.
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During this month’s Club World Cup, Real Madrid head coach-in-waiting Xabi Alonso publicly underlined Rodrygo’s importance to the team, stating: “He’s still important. He’s a special player. I think he’ll play an important part at the Club World Cup.”
Arsenal target Rodrygo
Real Madrid star Rodrygo (Image credit: Getty Images)
Despite Alonso’s endorsement, Spanish journalist Antonio Romero ofCadena SER claims Rodrygo could be sold before the end of the summer if he fails to rediscover his best form.
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“It’s an open secret that if Rodrygo doesn’t wake up and an offer comes in, he’s more out than in,” Romero said. “Nobody wants to get rid of a Rodrygo like the one who shined under Ancelotti two or three seasons ago. But if it’s the Rodrygo of last season, melancholic and inconsistent, he’s gone.”
Madrid are expected to demand around €80 million (£67.5 million) for the winger, who remains under contract at the club.
Arsenal’s interest in Rodrygo has received public backing from Brazilian defender Gabriel Magalhães. Speaking on the Podpah Podcast earlier this month, Gabriel expressed admiration for his compatriot and said he would welcome his arrival in North London.
“Rodrygo is a phenomenon, for me,” Gabriel said. “He’s not at Arsenal… If it depended on me, I’ve told people already, he’s a phenomenon. His name is mentioned a lot. If it was up to me, of course.”
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