Arsenal have reportedly held talks behind-the-scenes over a move for Real Madrid ace Rodrygo this summer and the winger has revealed his yearly wage demands, according to Sky Sports Germany's Florian Plettenberg.
The Gunners are in desperate need of reinforcements, with it becoming evident over the course of the 2024/25 season that more firepower is needed to seriously challenge for the major titles. They were some distance short of beating Liverpool to the Premier League title, and were unable to progress past the semi-finals in their chase for Champions League glory.
Boss Mikel Arteta and his entourage have already all-but-confirmed a deal for Real Sociedad technician Martin Zubimendi, but fans will be hoping to see progress on the attacking signings front. Amid interest in RB Leipzig star Benjamin Sesko, Arsenal have also been closely linked with Rodrygo, who has not shut the door on an exit from Madrid.
Arsenal In 'New Talks' for Rodrygo
The Brazilian wants a €10 million (£8.4 million) annual salary
In a report to X (formerly Twitter), Plettenberg noted that Arsenal had held talks regarding a move for Rodrygo, although the Gunners recognise the Brazilian's wage demands could complicate the deal.
Ultimately, Rodrygo is believed to be prepared to pack his bags and depart from the Santiago Bernabeu, should a suitable offer arrive for his services.
Dubbed "world-class" by teammate Luka Modric, Rodrygo would bring much-needed unpredictability and explosiveness to the left-flank, where the likes of Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard have struggled in recent seasons.
Rodrygo vs Gabriel Martinelli vs Leandro Trossard - 2024/25 Statistics comparison
Metric
Appearances
Goals
Assists
Shots per 90
Key Passes per 90
Successful Take-Ons per 90
Arteta's men have previously been punished for an over-reliance on Bukayo Saka on the right-wing; Rodrygo's arrival would help stretch defenses much more, though it remains to be seen whether the North Londoners are prepared to meet the 25-year-old's hefty wage demands.
Meanwhile, Arsenal have also placed a new centre-forward high on their agenda for this summer as well. Arteta is keen to add Sesko to his squad, and it is thought the Slovenian is his number one target.
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Statistics courtesy of FBRef.com - Correct as of 25/05/2025