Arsenal - Real Madrid players
Image credit: Getty Images
Arsenal are reportedly setting their sights on a sensational loan move for Real Madrid’s Brazilian winger Rodrygo, as the Gunners look to bolster their attacking options before the summer transfer window slams shut.
The 24-year-old’s uncertain future at the Santiago Bernabeu under new manager Xabi Alonso has sparked speculation, with Arsenal poised to capitalise on Real Madrid’s evolving squad dynamics.
According to sources close to the matter, Arsenal, led by manager Mikel Arteta and sporting director Andrea Berta, have been closely tracking Rodrygo’s situation. The versatile forward, capable of playing across the front line, has struggled for regular minutes during Real Madrid’s FIFA Club World Cup campaign, starting just one of four matches and appearing as a substitute in others.
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The arrival of high-profile stars like Kylian Mbappe has further clouded Rodrygo’s role, prompting rumors that Real Madrid may allow a temporary exit to balance their squad and finances.
Arsenal view Rodrygo as a potential upgrade over current left-wing options Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard. However, the club’s ability to secure the deal may depend on their compliance with UEFA Financial Fair Play regulations, following a busy transfer window that welcomed Viktor Gyokeres, Noni Madueke, Martin Zubimendi, and others.
Arsenal - Rodrygo
Rodrygo (Image credit: Getty Images)
Offloading fringe players like Reiss Nelson, Oleksandr Zinchenko, or Fabio Vieira could provide the financial flexibility needed to pursue Rodrygo.
Real Madrid’s history of negotiating favourable deals for surplus talent such as Alvaro Odriozola, Martin Odegaard, and Theo Hernandez offers Arsenal hope.
A loan arrangement for Rodrygo could mirror Odegaard’s successful stint with the Gunners in 2021, which culminated in a permanent transfer. However, a permanent deal for Rodrygo faces hurdles, with Real Madrid reportedly valuing the Brazilian at €80m to €100m, and his wage demands posing a challenge, according to ESPN Brazil.
Arsenal face stiff competition from Liverpool, Tottenham, Bayern Munich, and Chelsea, all of whom have been linked with Rodrygo. Liverpool’s interest could intensify if they lose Luis Diaz, who has been rumored to join Barcelona. Meanwhile, Paris Saint-Germain have distanced themselves from the race, and Tottenham reportedly holds little appeal for the player.
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Rodrygo’s frustration at his limited role under Alonso has fueled speculation about his next move. The Athletic reported that the winger removed a pre-match graphic from his Instagram profile after being benched for Real Madrid’s Club World Cup quarter-final against Borussia Dortmund, a move seen as a sign of discontent. Sources suggest Rodrygo is open to a Premier League switch, with Arsenal previously described as his “absolute priority” should he leave Madrid.
While no official contact has been made between Arsenal and Real Madrid, the situation remains fluid.
A loan move for Rodrygo, paired with recent signings like Gyokeres and star winger Bukayo Saka, could create a formidable attacking force capable of challenging for the Premier League title.
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