Arsenal and Manchester City are reportedly on alert, as a long-term transfer target from Real Madrid is reportedly available this January.
The Gunners weren’t expecting a busy January transfer window, as they already have a deep squad because of their impressive recruitment both in the summer, and over the past few seasons at the Emirates.
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However, Mikel Arteta has said that Arsenal will look to take chances in the transfer market should the right opportunities arrive, and it seems one of their top long-term targets may be available for a cut-price this month.
The Arsenal boss said at the end of December when asked about the transfer market, and his side’s current injury problems: “We are open to every option.
“Obviously, if we can find a solution that is short, medium or long. It’s always much better because it gives you stability and you don’t have to constantly start a process with a new player.”
Arsenal and Man City ‘on alert’ as Rodrygo made available
Real Madrid winger Rodrygo was linked with Arsenal, Man City and Liverpool in the summer transfer window, as his future at the Santiago Bernabeu was made uncertain, due to his lack of game time under Xabi Alonso.
However, no move materialised for the winger, but it is understood that he is willing to leave the club in January, as he wants a new challenge.
According to Spanish outlet SPORT, Rodrygo wants to leave Real Madrid, and that if it were up to him, the Brazilian would leave Real Madrid in the January transfer window, rather than waiting for the summer.
The report says that both Arsenal and Man City are ‘on alert’ with regards to the situation, as they both have held a longstanding interest in the 24-year-old. Furthermore, he is expected to be cheaper than in the summer, as his market value has decreased from over £70m to just over £50m now.
Semenyo deal could allow Rodrygo to join the Gunners
Seeing as Manchester City are working to sign Bournemouth winger Antoine Semenyo at the moment, it likely means that they won’t go after Rodrygo, unless they suddenly change their mind on the Bournemouth star.
That means that Arsenal could be free to go after Rodrygo in January, without competition from their Premier League title rivals.
However, Liverpool will be one to watch too, as they are looking for a long-term replacement for Mo Salah, whose future at the club is very uncertain.
Click here to see Arsenal’s latest transfer news during the January transfer window.