'.

Arteta’s ideal winger signing keen to join Arsenal this summer

Mikel Arteta believes Morgan Rogers is the ideal signing for Arsenal, with the player giving his preference to joining the Gunners this summer.

Morgan Rogers of Aston Villa gestures to the crowd during the UEFA Europa League Final 2026 match between SC Freiburg and Aston Villa FC at Besiktas Park on May 20, 2026 in Istanbul, Turkey. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)
Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images

Fabrizio Romano reports that Arsenal want to sign Morgan Rogers from Aston Villa this summer, considering him a top target along with (and perhaps slightly ahead of) Paris Saint-Germain’s Bradley Barcola.

Arsenal consider Rogers the perfect player in terms of skill, attitude, and experience in the Premier League, with Mikel Arteta saying internally that he believes Rogers is the ideal signing and the perfect winger for his squad.

The Gunners are reportedly talking with people close to the player, though Villa will want a good fee to sell. But Romano believes the deal is on.

Morgan Rogers of Aston Villa celebrates scoring his team's third goal during the Premier League match between Aston Villa and Sunderland at Villa Park on April 19, 2026 in Birmingham, England. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)
Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images

Football insider Hand of Arsenal reported on Tuesday that Rogers has given his preference to joining Arsenal, despite many clubs being in the race. The player has communicated his desire to leave to senior figures at Villa, and personal terms aren’t expected to be a hindrance.

Rogers is sold on Arteta’s project and plan for him, and Villa and Arsenal are reportedly in contact through unofficial channels over a potential deal. But the fee remains key.

Andrea Berta has asked to be kept informed if any other club makes a move for Rogers. But it seems the Gunners are leading the race at the moment.

Morgan Rogers of Aston Villa warms up prior to the Premier League match between Aston Villa and West Ham United at Villa Park on March 22, 2026 in Birmingham, England. (Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images)
Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images

The Athletic recently reported that there’s an understanding at Villa that this is the right time for Rogers to move, though he continues to behave impeccably and isn’t pushing for an exit. Villa are planning ahead with alternative targets, in case he leaves.

Rogers scored 14 goals and assisted another 12 this season, and he’s been called up to the England squad for the World Cup this summer.

Middlesbrough will be watching Rogers’ transfer situation closely, as they’re due 20% of the profit on the £15m they sold him to Villa for in 2024. As an example, a £100m deal would see Middlesbrough netting 20% of £85m, or £17m – which is more than they sold him for in the first place.

LONDON, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 30: Morgan Rogers of Aston Villa runs with the ball whilst under pressure from Leandro Trossard of Arsenal during the Premier League match between Arsenal and Aston Villa at Emirates Stadium on December 30, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images
Related Topics