Chelsea want to hijack Arsenal’s move to sign £84m Real Madrid star | OneFootball

Chelsea Plot Move for Rodrygo Amid €100m Transfer Race with Arsenal

Left-wing priority driving Chelsea’s interest

Chelsea’s summer recruitment strategy is gathering pace, with Real Madrid winger Rodrygo Goes now emerging as a key target. According to AS, the 24-year-old Brazil international is attracting strong interest from the Premier League, with both Chelsea and Arsenal preparing to intensify their pursuit.

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Chelsea, under head coach Enzo Maresca, are seeking upgrades in wide areas as they reshape their attack. With doubts surrounding the futures of Jadon Sancho, Pedro Neto and Noni Madueke, the left wing is a clear area of focus. The club views Rodrygo as an ideal fit, capable of providing both creativity and goals in a system that relies heavily on width and technical precision.

Photo: IMAGO

Talks planned as competition increases

While Arsenal have already held discussions with Rodrygo’s representatives, Chelsea are said to be planning their approach soon. Diario AS report that the Blues are preparing to speak with the player’s camp, believing he would thrive in Maresca’s tactical setup and benefit from the opportunity to play regularly in his preferred role on the left.

The pull of regular first-team football, coupled with Chelsea’s recent UEFA Conference League success, could play in their favour. Rodrygo has played mostly on the right at Madrid but prefers operating from the left — a detail not lost on Chelsea’s recruitment team.

Madrid’s stance on €100m valuation

Real Madrid are understood to be open to selling Rodrygo for around €100 million, although this position could shift depending on new manager Xabi Alonso’s plans. Should Alonso sanction a departure, Chelsea will be among the frontrunners, though financial competition from Arsenal remains a factor.

Photo: IMAGO

As the market evolves, Chelsea’s ability to move quickly and decisively may prove key in securing one of the most sought-after attackers available this summer.

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Rodrygo is a Champions League-level talent, someone who’s played at the very top with Real Madrid and delivered in big moments. If there’s even a chance he’s available, it makes total sense to push hard.

What’s really encouraging is that this feels like a player with a real fit. Maresca’s system thrives on intelligent wide players who can link, press, and finish, and Rodrygo ticks every box. He’s got the technical flair, the pace, and the experience. Most importantly, he’d bring balance to a forward line that has often lacked cohesion.

Of course, €100 million is a significant outlay, but this is the calibre of signing that lifts standards and sends a message. Competing with Arsenal adds spice, but it also shows Chelsea are not content with just European qualification — they want to build a squad that can push for more.