Rodrygo gives green light to Arsenal move as Arteta eyes double attacking boost
Arsenal have received encouraging signs in their pursuit of Rodrygo, with the Real Madrid star reportedly open to a Premier League switch. BBC journalist Sami Mokbel has revealed that the Brazilian is keen on joining the Gunners, provided a deal can be agreed before the transfer window shuts on September 1.
Mikel Arteta remains locked in talks to finalise the signing of Viktor Gyokeres from Sporting CP. But the Arsenal boss is also pushing for further firepower, with Rodrygo now firmly on the radar as a second big-name addition.
Rodrygo open to Emirates switch
Speaking to Latte Firm, Mokbel confirmed that Arsenal have been in contact with Rodrygo’s entourage to test the waters. The feedback was described as positive, with the 23-year-old winger open to the move. However, Real Madrid’s valuation is expected to be around £80 million.
“In terms of Rodrygo, Arsenal are very interested in him,” Mokbel said. “They’ve spoken to the relevant parties connected to the player to see whether he’d be up for it. I think they’ve got positive feedback that he would give it serious consideration.”
Arsenal will need to be creative with how they structure the deal. Mokbel made it clear that the financial package, including wages, will be significant. While the north London club have spending power, they are also conscious of keeping their books balanced after several big-money arrivals in recent windows.
Talks began months ago
Reports suggest Arsenal first initiated contact with Rodrygo’s camp during the Club World Cup earlier this year. The Brazilian featured for just 101 minutes in the tournament, and while he remains a key squad player at Madrid, his long-term future in the Spanish capital is not guaranteed.
Despite signing a long-term deal that includes a release clause north of £860 million, Real Madrid could be tempted to cash in if the right offer arrives. Arsenal see the winger as a high-end solution to bolster their wide options and provide a different dynamic to Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli.
Rodrygo’s versatility across the front three also appeals to Arteta. With Champions League football back on the agenda and a Premier League title challenge on the cards, Arsenal want top-tier quality and depth across every position.
Author Opinion
If Arsenal can secure both Viktor Gyokeres and Rodrygo before the window closes, it would mark one of their most ambitious summer sprees under Mikel Arteta. Rodrygo’s interest gives them a strong position in talks, but matching Madrid’s price and fitting his wages into the current structure won’t be easy. Still, this is a deal worth pushing hard for. Arsenal want to win now, and Rodrygo fits the profile of a player who can make a major difference.
