Arsenal are interested in Real Madrid winger Rodrygo and Mikel Arteta is a fan, though the cost of a summer deal could prove problematic.
James McNicholas reports for The Athletic that Mikel Arteta is a fan of Real Madrid forward Rodrygo, though the financial parameters of a deal would be challenging. This follows a recent report from Relevo that Arsenal have made contact over the player.
Spanish outlet AS wrote on Thursday Arsenal like Rodrygo, who is currently a little out of favour in Madrid. Though they add that the Brazilian isn’t the Gunners’ only option, and that they face competition from Manchester City.
AS add that Real Madrid would be willing to negotiate for €100m (£84.2m) or more. If any of the English clubs put a figure like that on the table, a sale would be considered.
Like AS, McNicholas’ report also mentions other potential targets, in the form of Nico Williams of Athletic Club and Jamie Bynoe-Gittens of Borussia Dortmund.
Arsenal clearly aren’t yet committed to any single target, perhaps hoping that their openness to pivot will ultimately get them a better deal.
There’s also the question of what other business Arsenal are doing. If the Gunners are spending big on a striker, as well as the likely deal for Martin Zubimendi in midfield, perhaps there isn’t the money for a big bid for Rodrygo as well.
But if Real Madrid are open to selling and Arsenal can afford the deal this summer, there’s no doubt that Rodrygo would be an excellent acquisition.
The 24-year-old has another 23 goals and assists in 50 appearances this season, after racking up 27 goals and assists in 52 games last campaign.
Though he may not be at his best right now, the talent is clearly there. This could be a good time to pounce and get the winger firing again.