Arsenal’s ambition to return to the summit of English football has seen them linked with some of the biggest names in world football — and **Real Madrid winger Rodrygo** is now firmly among them. The Gunners are understood to have a **strong and genuine interest** in signing the Brazilian international this summer, as Mikel Arteta and sporting director Andrea Berta explore elite-level reinforcements for the wide areas.
Rodrygo, still only 24, has become one of the standout young stars in world football since joining Real Madrid in 2019. With his pace, dribbling ability, and knack for scoring important goals on big occasions, he has earned a reputation as a big-game player — something that would suit Arsenal’s Champions League ambitions next season.
### A Perfect Fit for Arteta’s System
Arsenal’s interest in Rodrygo is not new, but it has **intensified** in recent weeks. The Brazilian fits the club’s desired profile for a wide attacker: young, technical, explosive, and proven at the highest level. Although he typically plays on the right, Rodrygo’s versatility allows him to operate anywhere across the front three — giving Arteta more tactical flexibility.
With Bukayo Saka already a key figure on the right flank, Arsenal may see Rodrygo as a player who can **rotate across both wings** or even operate as an inside forward on the left — a position where the club has been seeking more consistent output.
Rodrygo’s experience in big moments, especially in the Champions League, could also add a winning mentality and composure under pressure — attributes Arteta is known to value.
Rodrygo’s future at the Bernabéu has come into question following the **arrival of Kylian Mbappé**, combined with the presence of stars like Vinícius Júnior, Jude Bellingham, and Endrick. With Madrid’s attacking line now overstocked, there’s a growing belief that **Rodrygo could be made available for the right price**.
While the Spanish giants are not in a rush to sell, reports suggest they would consider offers in excess of **£70 million** for the winger. Arsenal are believed to be monitoring the situation closely and would be **willing to make him one of the club’s top earners** if a deal can be struck.
### Backing from Arsenal’s Leadership Group
Internally, there is said to be **unanimous support** for the pursuit of Rodrygo. Arteta sees him as a statement signing that could elevate the squad, while several first-team players are reportedly enthusiastic about the prospect of him joining.
Sporting director Andrea Berta has also been conducting **background work** on the deal, speaking with intermediaries and gauging Rodrygo’s openness to a move to North London.
### One to Watch
With the summer transfer window heating up, Arsenal’s pursuit of Rodrygo could become one of the biggest sagas of the window. While Real Madrid will drive a hard bargain, the Gunners have shown increasing willingness to **compete financially for world-class talent** — and Rodrygo may just be their next big swing.
If a deal materialises, it would be a statement of intent from Arsenal — and a clear sign they are building a squad to challenge the very best in Europe.