Arsenal have reportedly been handed a significant boost in their pursuit of Real Madrid forward Rodrygo, with sources in Spain claiming that “the deal is on” for a potential summer move. The Gunners are said to be “serious” contenders to land the Brazilian international, who is now considered one of the leading candidates to depart the Bernabéu in the coming months.
Rodrygo, 23, has been an integral part of Carlo Ancelotti’s setup in recent seasons, contributing 68 goals and 50 assists in 268 appearances since arriving from Santos in a £38 million deal back in 2019. But with Kylian Mbappé expected to finally make his long-anticipated move to Madrid and Endrick set to join the senior squad, space in Los Blancos’ attacking line is rapidly shrinking — leaving Rodrygo’s future uncertain.
That uncertainty has not gone unnoticed in north London. Arsenal have been long-time admirers of the versatile forward, who can play across the front three, and Mikel Arteta is said to be pushing hard behind the scenes to bring in a world-class attacking addition this summer. According to reports in Spain, the Gunners have made their interest known and are now in a position to move forward with a concrete proposal.
Rodrygo’s potential arrival at the Emirates would represent a major statement of intent from Arsenal, who are aiming to go one better next season after narrowly missing out on the Premier League title. With Champions League football secured again, Arteta is determined to add both quality and depth to a squad that showed signs of fatigue in the run-in.
The Brazilian’s experience at the highest level — including his heroics in the Champions League and for the national team — makes him an ideal fit for Arsenal’s ambitions. At just 23, he already boasts a career many envy and would offer the kind of final-third decisiveness that could elevate Arsenal’s attack to new heights.
Financially, Real Madrid are reportedly open to offers in the region of £85 million, a fee Arsenal could accommodate with outgoings expected this summer. The likes of Reiss Nelson, Emile Smith Rowe, and possibly Eddie Nketiah are all linked with exits, freeing up wages and squad space.
While there is interest from other European heavyweights — including PSG and Bayern Munich — Arsenal are believed to be in pole position, thanks to the club’s clear sporting project, London lifestyle, and Arteta’s persuasive powers. The Spanish boss has already shown an ability to lure top talent with the likes of Declan Rice and Gabriel Jesus backing his project in recent windows.
Whether Arsenal can finalise a deal remains to be seen, but the signs are positive. Rodrygo’s camp are reportedly open to a move, and Real Madrid are not standing in his way should the right offer arrive. This could be one of the summer’s defining transfer sagas — and Arsenal are right in the thick of it.
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