Arsenal face major blow in bid to sign Rodrygo from Real Madrid

Arsenal are set to face a major blow in their bid to sign Rodrygo from Real Madrid this summer due to the player’s wage demands.

The Gunners have reignited their interest in the Brazilian after missing out on Nico Williams, who has reportedly agreed a six-year deal with Spanish La Liga winners Barcelona.

Mikel Arteta has now turned their focus on Los Blancos forward following a disappointing verdict from Williams to stay in Spain and potentially sign for Hansi Flick’s side.

Rodrygo has been mooted for a move away from the Santiago Bernabeu this summer after an underwhelming 2024-25 campaign, where he saw his game time reduced due to fierce competition in the club’s attack.

The Gunners, who are looking to sign a new forward, have been linked with a move for Rodrygo, but Real Madrid are under no pressure to sell the forward.

Late last month, Rodrygo informed Madrid he wants to continue his career with the club, cooling all speculations of a potential exit this summer.

Rodrygo for real Madrid — Rodrygo for Real Madrid. Image credit: Getty Images

The Brazilian endured a difficult 2024-25 campaign and has not featured since the Copa del Rey final on April 26, fueling rumours of a move away in the summer.

Several Premier League clubs, including Chelsea, are said to be monitoring the situation for the Brazilian, with Arsenal said to be circling around to pounce for his signature this summer.

Carlo Ancelotti’s replacement, Xabi Alonso, has, however, provided an update on Rodrygo amid interest from several clubs.

Speaking about Rodrygo’s future at Madrid, Alonso said: “I know what had happened.

“The end of the season wasn’t easy for him [Rodrygo].

“He took some time to reset. We’ve talked since day one, and I see him eager to contribute on the field and enjoy himself.”

Reports in Spain claim the La Liga giants would demand in the region of €90 million (£77m) to part ways with Rodrygo this summer.

A fee Arsenal are ready to meet; however, the player’s massive €12 million per season salary demand could prove to be a bottleneck for the North London club, as they are not ready to spend that amount of money on the player’s wages.

Meanwhile, Diario AS reports that Arsenal, at one point, were keen on signing Nico Williams from Athletic Club, but with Barcelona now in pole position to secure a transfer for the winger, the English giants have reportedly rekindled their interest in Rodrygo.

Aside from the Brazilian star, Arteta also has his eyes on RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko and Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres as potential forward alternatives.