Aston Villa forward Morgan Rogers is still Arsenal’s “number one option” to strengthen the front line, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.
There has been speculation that the Gunners could shift their attention to PSG’s Bradley Barcola amid reports that Villa could demand as much as £130m for Rogers, but speaking on his YouTube channel, Romano said:
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“Arsenal also have an interest in Barcola, but their number-one option remains Morgan Rogers. For Morgan Rogers, Aston Villa want to put a price around £130 million to let him leave this summer.”
“Villa are aware of Arsenal’s interest and of interest from other clubs, including Chelsea. But in this moment, Arsenal have made very good progress on the player’s side for some time. And so, Arsenal keep pushing for Rogers.”
“Barcola is on the list, but for Rogers, this depends on the price because Aston Villa want £130 million, but Arsenal hope to find a way to negotiate, maybe with add-ons, maybe with a different structure. Arsenal hope to be creative in order to find a solution for Rogers.”
Even with add-ons and instalments, £130m is a lot of money
Villa have clearly decided to place a British record asking price on Rogers to deter Arsenal and other suitors (such as Chelsea and Manchester United) from making bids.
While Romano is claiming that an offer from the Gunners for the England international is still likely, it is hard to see them paying so much for one player, especially as there are other signings to make.
Manager Mikel Arteta is also keen on recruiting a midfielder, a right-back and (potentially), a backup keeper. More funds could be raised by selling the likes of Gabriel Jesus, Leandro Trossard, Ethan Nwaneri and others, but Rogers’ asking price is still excessive.
Arsenal won’t pay much less for Barcola
Some fans, who will be urging the club to steer clear of Rogers, may not be aware that the main alternative has a valuation which is almost exactly the same.
Journalist David Ornstein has reported that PSG value Bradley Barcola at a “much higher” amount than the £116m that Manchester City splashed out on Elliot Anderson.
The market is very inflated, and it will be up to Arteta and sporting director Andrea Berta to navigate it and ensure they secure a top forward this summer.