One player that Arsenal wish to sign this summer is Rodrygo, but whether a deal can be struck is unclear.
Arsenal know Rodrygo will cost a lot to lure away from Real Madrid this summer.
The Brazilian won’t be easy to acquire, but that won’t stop Arsenal’s pursuit to attempt to sign the winger from the Galacticos.
Before anything, Rodrygo wants to talk to Xabi Alonso about his future, something that might already be underway after the 24-year-old rejoined the squad after recovering from an injury.
How Rodrygo has been treated upon Real Madrid return
Rodrygo returned to training ahead of Real Madrid’s opening fixture at the Club World Cup.
The Brazil international is one of several Arsenal targets at the Club World Cup, giving fans the opportunity to assess what the wide player could offer to Mikel Arteta’s project.
For now, all eyes are on the outcome of Rodrygo’s conversation with Alonso, which is expected to be crucial regarding the Gunners’ chances of signing the Brazilian this summer.
After the forward’s return to the Real Madrid squad, The Athletic shared an insight into how things are going for Rodrygo in the early days under Alonso amid Arsenal’s interest.
According to The Athletic’s sources at Valdebebas, Rodrygo has maintained a ‘positive’ attitude since returning to action, which has been mirrored by his new manager.
It’s understood that Alonso has been ‘very attentive’ to the player, balancing his demands for the winger with affection.
The early feedback is telling for Arsenal, and not in a good way, as the Gunners’ ability to approach the player hangs on how valued he feels in Alonso’s project.
The door is not closed by any means, but with regard to Rodrygo seeing a future at Real Madrid under the new manager’s reign, it appears that Alonso is doing what he can to retain the superstar.
Club World Cup involvement is crucial to Rodrygo pursuit
The Athletic added that Rodrygo’s role at the Club World Cup could be an indication of how his future at the Bernabeu looks.
One of the Brazilian’s problems at Madrid is that he’s denied the chance to play in his favoured position, as Vinicius Junior has occupied the left-wing role, forcing Rodrygo to the right.
Arteta has plans for Rodrygo at Arsenal on the left side, which could sway a transfer into the Gunners’ favour, but only if the 24-year-old feels the need to leave Los Blancos.
The Club World Cup will be a strong indicator of Arsenal’s chances of recruiting Rodrygo, as Real Madrid’s campaign in the tournament kicks off on Wednesday night.
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