Arsenal have made a surprise approach for Real Madrid star Rodrygo as Mikel Arteta eyes firepower to bolster his attack ahead of next season, according to reports in Spain.
The Gunners, set to finish runners-up in the Premier League for a third consecutive year after Liverpool wrapped up the title last week, are wasting no time in planning their next steps. Despite falling short domestically, Arsenal’s impressive Champions League run—highlighted by a stunning 5-1 aggregate triumph over Madrid in the quarter-finals—has raised the club’s profile and could help attract elite-level talent this summer.
Arteta is determined to build on that momentum. Spanish outlet Relevo claims the North London club have already made an official enquiry for Rodrygo, the Brazilian forward who has been a key figure at the Bernabéu but whose future is now under review.
Madrid, it’s understood, have slapped a €100 million price tag on the 23-year-old as they weigh up his role in their long-term plans, especially with Xabi Alonso tipped to take over in the dugout. Rodrygo is reportedly set for discussions with Alonso in the coming weeks to clarify his standing within the squad before deciding his next move.
Arsenal, meanwhile, are gearing up for what Arteta has already promised will be a “big summer” in the transfer market. Speaking last month, the Spaniard confirmed plans to strengthen both the depth and quality of his squad, highlighting the club’s ambition to make the leap from challengers to champions.
“It’s going to be a big one and we are very excited about it,” Arteta said. “We’ve got strong foundations but now it’s about evolving and adding the right pieces to push to the next level.”
The arrival of Andrea Berta as sporting director is expected to play a pivotal role in Arsenal’s recruitment drive, and Rodrygo would certainly represent a marquee signing.
However, any move is likely to hinge on the player’s own stance once he’s held crunch talks with Madrid—and on whether the Gunners are prepared to match the hefty asking price.
One thing is clear: with Liverpool setting the bar high and City never far behind, Arteta’s Arsenal are gearing up for an ambitious summer in their quest to finally get over the line.
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