Arsenal 'begin talks' with Real Madrid for Rodyrgo

Arsenal have reportedly opened talks with Real Madrid regarding a move for Rodrygo.

Recent reports suggested that Real Madrid were open to Rodrygo leaving, likely putting a number of Premier League clubs on alert.

Liverpool are after a left-winger and a centre forward, as are Arsenal, and Rodrygo's versatility takes some of the pressure off signing more forward players.

The Gunners will add Martin Zubimendi to their squad; a left-winger and a centre forward would likely bring an end to their summer transfer dealings, but the fact they've still not made any concrete moves for a striker suggests the club are uncertain as to which avenue to go down.

Viktor Gyokeres and Benjamin Sesko have both been strongly linked, but a deal for either still seems a long way away, while a move for Rodrygo may begin to accelerate.

Sky Germany's Florian Plettenburg reported on X: "Arsenal are continuing to seriously pursue Rodrygo!

"Still difficult but he is currently at the very top of their list for the wing. Talks between all parties have started as revealed [on Wednesday].

"Mikel Arteta has not denied this report, saying: 'If you want to win major trophies, you have to be the best in the market.'

“'We have to add goal, creativity, numbers and that will be in different positions.'"

Rodrygo has spent much of his Real Madrid career playing off the right, and his ability to play in a number of roles serves to make him an even more attractive proposition.

While Arsenal do have Ethan Nwaneri coming through, the ability to rest Bukayo Saka for a more established player must be enticing, all the while upgrading on Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard on the left flank.

Early reports suggested that Real wanted around £85m for Rodrygo, but with him unlikely to be a regular fixture in Xabi Alonso's 3-4-2-1 system, that appears to have already dipped to £67.5m, while Premier League clubs will hope to knock that down to around £60m to make the move happen.

Liam Williams

• Arsenal F.C.
• Real Madrid CF
• Premier League
• La Liga
• Transfer News
• • 
  •