Andrea Berta - Arsenal - Chelsea
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Arsenal have reportedly paused all contact with Real Madrid winger Rodrygo Goes, despite ongoing uncertainty surrounding the Brazilian’s future at the Santiago Bernabéu.
Rodrygo’s role at Los Blancos has come under increased scrutiny in recent months, particularly after a dip in form and playing time toward the end of the 2024/25 campaign. While the appointment of Xabi Alonso as Carlo Ancelotti’s successor last month initially appeared to stabilise the situation, with Alonso publicly backing the 24-year-old, the player’s continued absence from the starting XI has reignited speculation over a potential summer exit.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is a long-time admirer of Rodrygo and the Gunners had explored the possibility of a move, with Real Madrid reportedly valuing the forward at €80 million (£67 million). However, according toCadena SER, Arsenal have now halted all contact with the player and his representatives.
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Rodrygo’s camp had reached out to several Premier League clubs in May to gauge interest, with Arsenal considered the most likely destination should he leave Madrid. Yet, the North London club have chosen to take a wait-and-see approach, hoping that continued exclusion under Alonso could force Real Madrid to lower their asking price.
Arsenal - Rodrygo
Rodrygo (Image credit: Getty Images)
Any potential deal is now expected to be delayed until the final weeks of the summer transfer window, which closes on 1 September. For now, Arsenal appear to be prioritising other areas of their squad, particularly the signing of a new striker, while also engaging in talks with Crystal Palace over a move for England international Eberechi Eze.
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Rodrygo started Real Madrid’s opening match of the Club World Cup, registering an assist in a 1-1 draw with Al Hilal. However, his involvement has since dwindled. He was an unused substitute in two of the last three matches and made only a 23-minute cameo in the group stage tie against RB Salzburg.
Alonso’s tactical shift to a 3-5-2 formation has left Rodrygo on the fringes, with 21-year-old Gonzalo Garcia emerging as a surprise starter alongside Vinícius Júnior in attack. Garcia has made the most of his opportunity, scoring twice in his last two appearances and earning praise from his manager.
After benching Rodrygo in the second group match against Pachuca, Alonso described the decision as “technical” and reiterated the winger’s importance to the squad. “He looks good, enthusiastic,” Alonso said. “The other day [against Pachuca] was a technical decision, but he’s still important. He’s a special player. I think he’ll play an important part at the Club World Cup.”
Despite Alonso’s comments, Rodrygo remained on the bench for the round of 16 clash against Juventus, casting further doubt over his role under the new manager.
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