Rodrygo is preparing for what could be his final game at Real Madrid amid summer transfer links to Arsenal. The Brazil international is of firm interest to Mikel Arteta with the Gunners spotting a possible market opportunity they can take advantage of.
In the final weeks of the La Liga season, Rodrygo did not feature often and though former boss Carlo Ancelotti explained that was because of injury and illness, his minutes remained similar under new head coach Xabi Alonso.
Since starting their first game at the Club World Cup, he has played just 27 minutes across the following four fixtures. Arda Guler and Gonzalo Garcia impressing has made it more difficult for him to get into the team but recent comments from Alonso suggest there is something else preventing him from playing more frequently.
“I’m sure Rodrygo can return to his best form,” Alonso admitted after giving Rodrygo the final 13 minutes of their 3-2 quarter-final victory over Borussia Dortmund. “I spoke with him; he’s positive, eager and ready when needed.”
The 24-year-old has seemingly backed up that statement on social media by posting an update to X which shows him working hard in training. The caption of the post reads: "Ready. [white heart emoji]."
Based on recent decisions, it seems more likely he will again be on the bench but prepared to make an impact if called upon. A meeting between him and Alonso regarding his future is also expected after the Club World Cup with Real wanting £77million (€90m) if he departs.
In the meantime, Arsenal have been working on other wide forward targets with Chelsea's Noni Madueke being pursued.
Personal terms on a five-year contract have already been agreed with the 23-year-old and now club-to-club talks are expected to follow. The Blues value Madueke at £50million but Arsenal are not willing to pay that and thus a compromise will be needed if the deal is to advance.
While better off the right, the England international is also capable of playing on the opposite flank and considering the funds required, it seems unlikely that both he and Rodrygo would join unless a big sale is sanctioned.
Eberechi Eze of Crystal Palace is also high up on their shortlist after a meeting took place between his representatives and Arsenal chiefs in June.
Ademola Lookman, Anthony Gordon and Nico Williams have been other wingers linked, but it currently looks as though none of those names will be actively pursued.