As the 2025 summer transfer window ignites, Arsenal are orchestrating a bold strategy to prise Real Madrid’s Brazilian star Rodrygo from the Santiago Bernabeu, aiming to bolster their attacking arsenal for another Premier League title tilt. The Gunners, under the shrewd guidance of manager Mikel Arteta and new sporting director Andrea Berta, see the 24-year-old winger as the key to elevating their frontline, particularly on the left flank where Gabriel Martinelli’s inconsistent form and Bayern Munich’s interest have raised concerns. With Rodrygo’s future at Real Madrid uncertain under new manager Xabi Alonso, Arsenal are banking on a compelling sporting project to convince the versatile forward to make the leap to North London.
Rodrygo, who joined Real Madrid from Santos in 2019 for €45 million, has etched his name as one of Europe’s premier forwards, amassing 68 goals and 50 assists in 267 appearances for Los Blancos. His trophy cabinet boasts three La Liga titles and two Champions League crowns, yet the arrival of Kylian Mbappé in 2024 relegated him to a less-favored right-wing role, sparking frustration. “My favourite position is as an attacking midfielder and then through the wings,” Rodrygo said in a 2023 interview, adding, “I just don’t like playing as a nine, but I’m getting better.” Arsenal’s plan hinges on offering him his preferred left-wing spot, with the freedom to roam across the attack, a vision that could sway the Brazilian, especially as he’s reportedly been unsettled by limited starts—only 22 in La Liga last season—and a dip in form, with just six goals in 2024-25.
The Gunners’ interest is not without hurdles. Real Madrid have set a €90 million price tag on Rodrygo, whose contract runs until 2028, and club president Florentino Perez has been resolute: “For €70 million, Rodrygo is not for sale.” Arsenal’s initial inquiries, confirmed by trusted insiders, met resistance due to Rodrygo’s £250,000-per-week wage demands, a figure that would strain their financial structure under Financial Fair Play constraints. “Arsenal have made enquiries to sign Rodrygo,” a source noted, but the club is playing a waiting game, as Rodrygo has yet to formally request a transfer. His recent social media post, “Thank you for all your messages and concerns. I’ll be back soon. Stop making things up,” aimed to quell exit rumors, suggesting his focus remains on proving himself at the Club World Cup under Alonso, who called him “a spectacular player” and emphasized the need for a face-to-face meeting to determine his role.
Arsenal’s confidence stems from their belief in offering a project where Rodrygo can thrive. “Arsenal are convinced they could offer him a sporting project where he could be at ease, playing on the left-hand side of attack but with the freedom to move around,” an insider revealed. This vision aligns with Arteta’s demand for “a goal threat” and “firepower,” as he stated before Arsenal’s 2-1 win over Southampton: “We have to add goals, we have to add creativity, we have to add numbers.” Former Manchester City star Micah Richards endorsed the move, saying, “Rodrygo could leave in the summer. He’s a top player,” while suggesting he’d be an upgrade over Martinelli. However, former Arsenal midfielder Ray Parlour urged caution, advocating for Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers instead: “I’d rather keep Martinelli.”
The transfer saga is further complicated by competition from Liverpool, Manchester City, and Chelsea, all of whom have approached Rodrygo’s camp, and Saudi clubs Al-Nassr and Al-Hilal, who tabled €130 million bids. Arsenal’s Brazilian contingent, including Gabriel Magalhaes, could be a trump card, with Gabriel calling Rodrygo “a phenomenon” and expressing his desire to see him at the Emirates. Yet, Rodrygo’s recent contentment under Alonso, whose training sessions have reportedly revitalized him, casts doubt on an imminent move. “Rodrygo has decided to stay,” a Spanish report claimed, noting his positive response to Alonso’s vision.
As Arsenal pivot from their failed pursuit of RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko and Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres, Rodrygo remains their “dream target,” per transfer expert Fabrizio Romano. With Martinelli and Leandro Trossard potentially facing sales to balance the books, Arsenal’s all-in approach for Rodrygo signals their intent to make a statement signing. Whether they can convince the Brazilian to leave his boyhood club depends on his post-Club World Cup decision, but the Gunners’ audacious plan has set the stage for a dramatic transfer battle.
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