Real Madrid’s star winger Rodrygo Goes looks set to be on the move this summer, with Premier League giants Arsenal and Man City leading the race to capture his signature. The 24-year-old is reportedly not in new coach Xabi Alonso’s plans for the coming season, therefore putting his future at the club in jeopardy.
While there is mutual respect between Madrid and Rodrygo, game time and competition have been a constant issue for the player. Since joining the club in 2019, Rodrygo has made just 46 appearances in his preferred Left-Wing position. Coupled with intense competition from newer signings such as Kylian Mbappe, Arda Guler, Brahim Diaz, and now the teenage sensation Mastantuono, this has significantly limited his output.
Arsenal still in the race for Rodrygo
The Brazilian has garnered interest from giants such as Liverpool, Arsenal and Manchester City, although Liverpool now seems to have backed out. The interest comes even though Real Madrid is reportedly asking for nearly €90-100 million to start talks. Man City is said to be leading the race currently. City winger Savinho’s potential €77 million transfer to Spurs could facilitate a move for Rodrygo for the Manchester-based side.
Arsenal have had a fairly busy window so far, spending over €200 million on players such as Viktor Gyokeres, Noni Madueke, Kepa Arrizabalaga, Norgaard, and Martin Zubimendi. It does not seem like they’re done yet, though. They are making a final effort to boost their attack, with Rodrygo and Eberechi Eze being their chosen targets. It’s unclear how Arsenal are approaching the Rodrygo transfer due to conflicting reports, but him being their first choice is certain. Recent reports suggest that Arsenal are testing the waters with a loan deal. A potential loan deal could come with a purchase clause worth €90 million at the end of the season, i.e., next summer.
Advantage Man City
Arsenal are still in the running; however, the advantage is increasingly shifting towards City. Pep Guardiola is said to be a big fan of Rodrygo. According to recent reports, Pep is pushing his board to sign the Brazilian at any cost. Pep has also called Rodrygo personally to lure him to City, per some journalists. It is hence clear that City consider Rodrygo a priority, especially since losing Jack Grealish to Everton and possibly Savinho.
🚨🔵 More on Rodrygo story from Monday. Pep Guardiola, big fan of the Brazilian and pushing for this option.
Manchester City are seriously considering Rodrygo in case of Savinho exit as revealed…
…and Pep would love to work with him. pic.twitter.com/OVTGC9se6e
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 12, 2025
From Rodrygo’s side, there is interest in City. The winger admires Guardiola and has named the Manchester side the best club in the world in May, 2024. Some reports state that the player is holding off from giving Arsenal a response as he prefers waiting for City. However, these reports are not confirmed.
The key factor deciding who gets the player, though, is likely his salary. Rodrygo currently earns €240,000 per week (gross) at Real Madrid. As per earlier reports, talks with Liverpool stalled due to his wage demands of €350,000 per week. While Arsenal may accept his wage demands, Man City are better equipped to offer higher wages.
Mbappe’s advice
Amidst all the transfer speculation, a public message from Kylian Mbappe clarifies his stance on the situation. Following the friendly against WSG Tirol, the Frenchman posted a picture of himself and Rodrygo on his Instagram profile. His caption, “Mi Primo”, translates to “My Cousin”, showing that he would like Rodrygo to stay at the Spanish club.
Rodrygo’s best move?
From a pure footballing perspective, leaving for Arsenal is the best option for Rodrygo. The winger requires consistent gametime, especially at left wing or as the central focal point in attack. His issue at Madrid was never his quality, rather the fact that he was always second fiddle to Vinicius and Mbappe. Moving to City, he still faces competition from Marmoush, Doku and the very exciting Rayan Cherki. He would be joining a team full of superstars, which is not a significant change from his time in Madrid. At Arsenal, on the other hand, he would have the Left-Wing position to himself, with Madueke and Martinelli as depth options. He’d be joining a growing team, a team that is on the cusp of greatness. He could become the star that takes Arsenal to the next level.
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