Journalist Reveals Arsenal are ‘Seriously Considering’ Move to Sign Real Madrid Star | OneFootball

Rodrygo to Arsenal? Real Madrid May Cash In as Gunners Open Talks

Serious Intent from North London

Arsenal’s summer plans are no longer being kept under wraps. With ambitions of challenging for the Premier League title again next season, Mikel Arteta’s side are eyeing top-tier talent—and they may have found it in Rodrygo. The 24-year-old Brazilian is reportedly a top target for the Gunners as they seek to bolster their options on the flanks.

According to Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg, Rodrygo could be on his way to North London if the right deal can be struck. Plettenberg stated on X: “Understand Arsenal are now seriously considering a transfer for Rodrygo! Talks have begun behind the scenes. The 24-year-old is a potential departure candidate at Real Madrid. It’s difficult but Arsenal are currently exploring all options for a possible transfer. Deal on.”

That clarity from Plettenberg leaves little to the imagination. Arsenal’s interest is both concrete and active.

Why Real Madrid May Let Rodrygo Go

Real Madrid’s pursuit of Nico Williams from Athletic Bilbao has placed existing squad members under pressure. With Vinicius Jr and Kylian Mbappé set to dominate the wide areas next season, Rodrygo’s starting spot has become far from guaranteed. Marca reported that a move for Williams is only feasible if a star makes way, with Rodrygo seen as the “leading candidate” to depart.

There’s a sense that the Brazilian feels increasingly side-lined. Since Mbappé’s arrival, Carlo Ancelotti has often chosen to bench Rodrygo when deploying an extra midfielder—a tactical adjustment that has seemingly left the winger disillusioned.

Cost of a Potential Deal

Rodrygo won’t come cheap. With a contract running until 2028, Real Madrid are under no pressure to offload him at a discount. Football Insider’s Pete O’Rourke estimates: “The minimum you’re probably talking about is £70m-plus – I’m sure Real Madrid will probably be holding out for as close as possible to £100m.”

Arsenal’s current record is the £105m shelled out for Declan Rice. While a Rodrygo deal may fall just short of that, it would undoubtedly push the Gunners’ spending limits. Clubs such as Manchester City, Liverpool, and Chelsea have also been linked, but the Gunners appear to be leading the charge for now.

Photo: IMAGO

Rodrygo’s Fit at Arsenal

Rodrygo has typically operated on the right for Real Madrid due to Vinicius Jr’s dominance on the left, but it’s worth noting that he is right-footed. That natural inclination to cut inside could make him a better fit on Arsenal’s left flank, where Gabriel Martinelli has endured an inconsistent campaign.

With versatility and European pedigree on his side, Rodrygo ticks many boxes. At 24, he also offers a blend of experience and upside that aligns well with Arteta’s vision for Arsenal 2.0.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

For an Arsenal supporter, it’s hard not to get excited about this one. Rodrygo isn’t just a decent winger—he’s a Champions League-calibre forward with genuine star quality. He’s quick, technical, smart in tight areas, and capable of turning games with a moment of brilliance.

Gabriel Martinelli, for all his energy and drive, has lacked consistency and end product in recent months. Bringing in Rodrygo would be a serious statement—one that says Arsenal are tired of ‘competing’ and ready to ‘win’.

The price tag is huge, but if this is what it takes to close the gap with Manchester City, then fans will support the investment. There’s also something poetic about beating Real Madrid to a player in Williams while taking one of theirs in Rodrygo. That’s ambition.

Ultimately, Arsenal fans would love to see this transfer happen—because it feels like the kind of move a title-winning side makes.