Arteta and Maresca are looking for a wingerplaceholder image
Arteta and Maresca are looking for a winger | Arsenal FC via Getty Images
Arsenal and Chelsea have been handed a lifeline in their reported bid to land an expensive attacker.
Arsenal and Chelsea could get their chance to sign one of their reported winger targets this summer. The London clubs will reportedly find out next week whether a deal is viable with crunch talks scheduled.
Another player who has been linked with both clubs is Real Madrid winger Rodrygo, who is said to be considering his future. The winger said in an interview with DAZN: “Yes, well, anything can happen. I have a contract here, but the years I’ve been here have been a pleasure for me.” He added when pressed: “No, no, don’t worry. As I said, I always want to be at this club, but let’s see.”
In the latest twist, Xabi Alonso decided not to play Rodrygo in the Club World Cup semi-final with PSG, a game Los Blancos lost 4-0. Asked about his decision, the Spaniard said: "I didn’t play Rodrygo for a technical decision. We thought we would be better off with other players. It’s not about his future."
On the back of those comments, Fabrizio Romano has reported that Rodrygo will speak to Real Madrid chiefs about his future next week, and an exit is very much on the cards. Romano posted on X: “Real Madrid and Rodrygo’s camp will discuss about future from next week. Decision will be up to Rodrygo as Real Madrid are open to accept exit if the player decides to leave. Rodrygo has not made Real Madrid starting XI at the Club World Cup for 5 consecutive games.”
Rodrygo will reportedly cost around £96.8million this summer, and that would be a pricey deal for both Arsenal and Chelsea given both sides are going to end up spending a lot this summer. Real Madrid may see their asking price impacted if Rodrygo does ask to leave, but they know they are selling one of the best wingers in football.
The Brazilian is only 24 years of age, and so he still hasn’t reached his prime, and he has already won three La Liga titles and two Champions League titles, among other trophies. In recent years, Rodrygo has been a key player for Los Blancos, usually playing on the other side from Vinicius Junior.
Rodrygo a ‘special’ player
Carlo Ancelotti has previously said of Rodrygo:"Both Valverde and Rodrygo are special players. And that's what modern-day footballers have to be. They can play in different positions and they possess both technical and physical attributes. The modern-day footballer is complete, has energy and quality. Modern-day football takes advantage of the intensity from footballers because that's what's required to play the game. Both players have developed tremendously and we're delighted because they're doing so well."
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