Arsenal - Aston Villa
Image credit: Getty Images
Arsenal have identified Aston Villa’s attacking midfielder Morgan Rogers as a key target in their efforts to strengthen the squad ahead of the 2025/26 season, according to multiple reports.
The 22-year-old England international enjoyed a standout 2024/25 campaign, recording 12 goals and 12 assists in all competitions and playing a vital role in Villa’s run to the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals. His performances have caught the eye of Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, who is looking to add creativity, depth, and versatility to the Gunners’ attacking options after a third straight second-place Premier League finish.
Capable of playing across the front line, particularly on the left flank or as a central attacking midfielder, Rogers fits the profile Arteta is seeking as he looks to build a squad capable of finally ending Arsenal’s long wait for a league title.
READ MORE: Kai Havertz sends strong message as Arsenal step up striker hunt
According to The Times, Rogers is among several high-profile names on Arsenal’s shortlist of attacking reinforcements, alongside Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams, Bayern Munich’s Leroy Sané, and Feyenoord star Igor Paixão. While Arsenal have made initial inquiries about Rogers, no formal offer has yet been submitted. Aston Villa, buoyed by Rogers’ recent contract extension through 2030, are expected to demand upwards of £70 million for the player.
Arsenal - Morgan Rogers
Morgan Rogers (Image credit: Getty Images)
Sporting director Andrea Berta is reportedly compiling detailed assessments on shortlisted players, with Arsenal prioritising signings who already possess Premier League experience. However, TBR Football’s Graeme Bailey has suggested Rogers may not be an ideal tactical fit for Arteta’s current system, which could lead Arsenal to explore a move for his Villa teammate Jacob Ramsey instead.
Villa’s failure to secure Champions League qualification following a contentious 2-0 defeat to Manchester United on the final day of the season has added fuel to speculation that the club may be forced to sell key assets to remain compliant with Premier League Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR). Notably, a disallowed goal by Rogers in that game, which replays indicated should have stood, proved decisive in costing the club a top-five finish.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE NOW ARSENAL WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!
Despite the financial pressures, Villa manager Unai Emery is determined to retain Rogers, viewing him as central to the club’s long-term project.
Arsenal are not alone in the race for the talented midfielder. Chelsea and Liverpool have also expressed interest, with Chelsea reportedly prepared to table a bid exceeding €100 million. Liverpool’s pursuit, however, appears to have cooled. Manchester City, where Morgan Rogers began his career, have also been linked but are understood to face reluctance from the player himself, who has publicly stated his happiness at Villa Park.
Still, Rogers’ rapid development and recent senior England call-ups have made him one of the most sought-after young midfielders in English football.
NEXT ARTICLE: Arsenal confirm first summer sale for £7.5m with 40% sell-on clause