Arsenal emerge favourites in transfer battle with Chelsea and Madrid | OneFootball

Arsenal Take Lead in Pursuit of Rodrygo as Arteta Eyes Summer Statement

Gunners move early in race for Brazilian international

Arsenal are now considered front-runners in the pursuit of Rodrygo as Mikel Arteta looks to deliver a marquee signing ahead of the 2024/25 campaign. According to Fichajes, the North London club have emerged as “favourites” to sign the Real Madrid forward, having already entered talks over a possible transfer.

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It is a development that suggests Arsenal are not content with simply building gradually. After falling short in the Champions League semi-finals and once again missing out on the Premier League title in the final weeks, the club are poised to take a more assertive approach this summer.

Arteta has reportedly presented Rodrygo with a compelling vision of life in England, one that represents “a tempting opportunity in a demanding but attractive league,” per Fichajes. The Brazilian international, described by Luka Modric as one of Madrid’s “world-class superstars”, is said to be open to the move and is now “evaluating the options open to him”.

Madrid willing to listen as front three reshuffle begins

Rodrygo’s possible departure aligns with Madrid’s reshaping of their attack. With Kylian Mbappe expected to occupy a central role alongside Vinicius Junior, Rodrygo’s opportunities on the left flank — his preferred position — appear limited. As journalist Ben Jacobs pointed out on the London is Blue podcast, “He’s been forced to play at Real on the right side… but his best position is on the left.”

Photo IMAGO

Madrid are now reportedly open to bids and, although no deal is advanced, Chelsea have shown interest and are “willing to submit” an offer in the region of €80 million (£67.4m). Arsenal, however, are understood to have taken the initiative.

Premier League battle intensifies

While Chelsea’s interest is credible, Arsenal’s early efforts have placed them in pole position. The player’s openness to a Premier League move, combined with Arteta’s persuasive involvement and a guaranteed place in a dynamic attacking system, makes the Emirates an increasingly appealing destination.

Liverpool are also said to be monitoring the situation, though no formal bid has been made from Anfield. Arsenal’s urgency and their willingness to act early could be the decisive factor.

Strategic ambition sets tone for summer

Rodrygo would represent more than just an attacking reinforcement. His signing would signal a shift in Arsenal’s transfer policy — a transition from cautious rebuild to bold, high-stakes execution. The Gunners’ Champions League pedigree is no longer a distant aspiration. It is the benchmark.

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Rodrygo isn’t just another prospect or depth option. He’s proven at the highest level — a Champions League winner, a Brazil international, a game-changer.

The fact that Arteta is leading this pursuit personally shows how serious they are. After coming close in multiple competitions, this is the sort of decisive, top-tier move that makes a statement to both fans and rivals. Rodrygo’s ability to operate across the front line would give Arsenal’s attack even more variety and unpredictability.

While €80 million is a significant outlay, this is the calibre of player Arsenal need to target if they’re serious about going toe-to-toe with Europe’s elite. Competing with Madrid and Chelsea for a player of this quality is something fans have long hoped to see, but leading that race is even better.

Yes, there are risks. Transitioning to the Premier League is never easy. But this feels like the next step. If Arsenal want to win titles, they have to think — and spend — like champions.