Arsenal are intensifying their efforts to strengthen their front line this summer and have been linked with a potential swoop for Real Madrid forward Rodrygo. The north London side is targeting wide options and a prolific No.9, with sporting director Andrea Berta leading the recruitment push.
Among the candidates for a marquee addition is Brazil international Rodrygo, who has found himself on the periphery of Madrid’s plans in recent months. Reports from Spain claim the La Liga giants may be willing to accept offers around £67.5 million for the 23-year-old winger.
Despite the exit rumours, Rodrygo was named in Xabi Alonso’s starting XI for Madrid’s Club World Cup opener against Al-Hilal in Miami. However, his performance was muted, and he was subbed off after 65 minutes in a 1-1 draw.
Former Arsenal midfielder Emmanuel Petit has backed the Gunners’ interest, describing Rodrygo as a player who can bring energy, goals, and humility to Mikel Arteta’s squad. Speaking to talkSPORTBET, Petit said Arsenal must invest significantly this summer to break their trophy drought.
Petit highlighted that Rodrygo’s work ethic and link-up play with Jude Bellingham and Vinicius Junior have impressed, even though he’s recently been overshadowed by his Brazilian teammate. The ex-France international sees Rodrygo as an ideal fit for Arsenal’s fluid attacking style.
Madrid’s stance on Rodrygo may have softened under new head coach Alonso, who praised the winger’s attitude in training. Alonso admitted the end of last season was challenging for the player but noted that Rodrygo had reset mentally and seemed ready to contribute again.
While the player is reportedly in better spirits under Alonso, his father and agent, Eric Goes, is unwilling to enter negotiations during the Club World Cup. Arsenal, however, remain patient and are weighing their options as the transfer window unfolds.
Rodrygo isn’t Arsenal’s only target. The Gunners are also monitoring Viktor Gyokeres, Benjamin Sesko, Nico Williams, and Mohammed Kudus. All are expected to attract strong competition from other elite European clubs.
Petit insists that to persuade top players to join, Arsenal must project confidence and ambition. Without silverware last season, the club faces the challenge of convincing targets that they are ready to win big honours in the coming campaign.
With pressure mounting on Arteta to deliver trophies, Arsenal may be forced into a bold statement signing—and Rodrygo could be that breakthrough addition.