Arsenal’s hopes of landing Brazilian winger Rodrygo from Real Madrid appear to be dwindling, with sources close to the club informing Spanish outlet SER that a potential deal is now “very complicated.”
The Gunners had shown strong interest in the 24-year-old attacker, viewing him as a marquee addition to bolster their frontline ahead of the 2025/26 campaign. Rodrygo’s versatility, elite technical skill, and Champions League pedigree made him an attractive option for Arsenal’s hierarchy, who had been exploring the possibility of a summer move in recent weeks.
However, despite initial optimism and background efforts led by Arsenal’s sporting director Andrea Berta, the path to a transfer has significantly narrowed. Sources familiar with internal discussions suggest that while the club hasn’t officially pulled out of the race, the “Arsenal road appears to have closed,” barring an unexpected change in circumstances.
The complications stem from several key issues — most notably, Real Madrid’s reluctance to sell Rodrygo, especially after Kylian Mbappé’s arrival has already reshaped the attacking lineup. While Los Blancos were reportedly open to discussing a deal in excess of £70 million earlier in the window, they now seem more intent on retaining depth and competition within their squad. Rodrygo, despite increased competition for places, remains highly valued by Xavi and the Madrid hierarchy.
From Arsenal’s side, financial pragmatism has also played a part. The club has already committed significant funds to other key targets this summer, including Viktor Gyökeres and Christian Mosquera. With ongoing negotiations still active on multiple fronts, Arsenal are reportedly hesitant to engage in a drawn-out bidding war or commit upwards of £80 million on a player whose availability is uncertain.
Adding to the complexity is Rodrygo’s own stance. While open to the idea of joining Arsenal earlier in the summer, sources indicate that the Brazilian is now more inclined to stay and fight for his place at the Santiago Bernabéu — especially with Real Madrid competing for every major title. Rodrygo’s desire to remain at a club where he’s already won multiple Champions League titles may ultimately outweigh any Premier League temptations.
The news will come as a disappointment to Arsenal fans, many of whom saw Rodrygo as an ideal reinforcement for the left flank — an area the club has targeted for improvement. Mikel Arteta had reportedly been a driving force behind the pursuit, appreciating the player’s tactical intelligence and work rate.
For now, Arsenal are expected to focus on finalising other ongoing deals and may shift their attention to alternative winger options. Though the door is not completely shut on Rodrygo, it would require a drastic change in Real Madrid’s stance or a significant push from the player himself to reignite the move.
With the transfer window still open for several weeks, twists and turns remain possible — but as things stand, Rodrygo to Arsenal is highly unlikely.
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