Arsenal are in hot pursuit of Aston Villa sensation Morgan Rogers, and his total transfer fee could be much cheaper than first thought.
Why Morgan Rogers is Arsenal's dream signing
Rogers has quickly become one of the Premier League's most exciting attacking players, so it is no surprise Arsenal are prepared to test Villa's resolve.
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If Mikel Arteta wants to build a squad capable of staying at the top for years to come, Rogers looks like the sort of signing worth making.
At just 23, the England international already has plenty in his locker. He can play from either wing, as a number 10 or even in a deeper attacking role, giving Arteta the tactical flexibility he values so highly.
That ability to fill multiple positions without a noticeable drop in performance is becoming increasingly important for clubs competing across several competitions.
Rogers also seems tailor-made for Arsenal's style.
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He is comfortable receiving possession in tight spaces, carries the ball confidently through midfield and has developed into a genuine goal threat, with 31 goals and 29 assists in 125 appearances for Unai Emery's side.
His decision-making has improved significantly over the last two seasons, but perhaps the biggest attraction is that Rogers still appears to have another level to reach.
Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that Arsenal are poised to accelerate a deal for Rogers after sealing Christos Tzolis, with the ex-Middlesbrough gem now their top target.
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Of course, there is one obvious concern.
Spending close to nine figures on any player creates enormous pressure, regardless of talent. Rogers would arrive with huge expectations and would immediately be judged against some of the league's biggest transfers.
That being said, Sky Switzerland journalist Sacha Tavolieri now reports they could sign him for much less.
Arsenal given £45m Morgan Rogers discount as Aston Villa star agrees terms
He suggests Arsenal's pursuit has taken another significant step forward.
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The reporter claims Rogers has already agreed personal terms on a contract running until 2031, leaving the clubs to negotiate a transfer fee.
His same report states Arsenal are expected to seal the deal for around £85 million.
That figure would represent a major discount off the £130 million valuation Aston Villa have previously been reported to want for their star attacker - precisely £45m less.
Villa remain in a strong position thanks to Rogers' long-term contract, while other reports in England continue to suggest they are publicly valuing the England international at more than £100 million.
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Whether Arsenal can bridge that gap remains to be seen, but the reported agreement on personal terms would remove one major obstacle if negotiations between the two clubs accelerate over the coming days.
Tavolieri also says that Rogers has told Villa he wants to join Arsenal, so this is certainly one to watch over the coming weeks.
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