Arsenal have been in contact with Real Madrid star Rodrygo’s camp, ahead of a potential transfer exit this summer, Arsenal Insider understands.
The forward is one of several options being assessed by sporting director Andrea Berta ahead of a busy few months.
As it stands, Arsenal are looking to bolster their attack by landing a centre-forward and a winger, with goals coming at a premium this season.
Mikel Arteta will be hopeful that the market can add those fresh options, with the left wing being a particular area for further strength.
With Rodrygo on Arsenal’s radar, it could bring extra competition for Gabriel Martinelli in the near future.
Arsenal make contact over Rodrygo transfer possibility
With the summer just around the corner, Arsenal are putting their transfer plans into place for a huge window ahead.
Plenty of different wingers have been linked, with Nico Williams one of particular interest to Arsenal over the past few years.
However, Arsenal Insider understands that Rodrygo is another who could make the switch to the Emirates Stadium.
The Brazilian is facing a potentially uncertain future with Real Madrid, which could tempt the Gunners into a switch.
Transfer expert Graeme Bailey shed some more light on the situation as he told Arsenal Insider: “Rodrygo is a special player.
“To go from Brazil straight to Real Madrid, you have to be, and he has performed – he has done very well for them.
“Real Madrid, though, is a crowded squad – they have so many good attacking players, and as it stands, Rodrygo is going through his toughest time.
“Arsenal liked him before he joined Real, and contact has remained throughout, touching base with his people, which is normal.
“But now, for the first time, there is a sniff of something in the air with him – Real are changing their head coach with Xabi Alonso set to replace Carlo Ancelotti.
“I believe Rodrygo will be talking with the club and the new head coach, but if he is not going to be a key player, he will look at his options, and there will be a host of clubs clamouring for his signature.
“Arsenal are in the market for a winger – whilst Rodrygo has spent a lot of his time at Real on the right, he has played on the left and can play there, he would be a fascinating option for them, if he becomes available.”
It certainly opens up the possibility of making a move, with Rodrygo potentially battling for a place on the left flank.
How Rodrygo’s statistics compare to Gabriel Martinelli at Arsenal
Rodrygo’s potential arrival at Arsenal adds another layer of versatility, with the Brazilian capable of playing on the left wing, the right wing and as a centre-forward.
The Real Madrid star is most likely to challenge on the left at the start, with Martinelli the current holder of that position.
The pair have both struggled at times this season, but the statistics favour Rodrygo and his performances across all competitions.
| Player | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gabriel Martinelli | 49 | 10 | 6 |
| Rodrygo | 50 | 13 | 10 |
With a few more goals and assists, Rodrygo could battle for a place with his international teammate, with a view to winning more trophies at the club.
Receive a digest of our best Arsenal content each week direct to your mailbox
