Arsenal Set to Battle Man City in the Race to Sign £84m Real Madrid Star – Report | OneFootball

Rodrygo’s Real Madrid Struggles Spark Fresh Premier League Interest

As reported by AS, Rodrygo Goes is once again making headlines—not for dazzling performances at the Bernabéu, but for his increasingly precarious position at Real Madrid. The 24-year-old Brazilian has hit a rough patch, with just one goal in his last 22 appearances, missing out on several key matches and even withdrawing from training with discomfort in his right leg. This dip in form has reignited Premier League interest, with some of England’s elite clubs circling.

Rodrygo’s Form Slump Raises Transfer Questions

Rodrygo’s trajectory in the Spanish capital has always hinted at flashes of brilliance, but the past few months have seen a marked downturn. As AS points out, he was “substituted at half-time in the Clásico of the Copa del Rey final,” and was “out of the squad against Celta de Vigo” altogether. These decisions by Carlo Ancelotti speak volumes about the coach’s current trust in the Brazilian forward.

Photo: IMAGO

Having not scored since the first leg of the Champions League derby against Atlético Madrid in early March, Rodrygo’s attacking output has dried up. A spell of poor form might be forgivable for a younger player, but with Real Madrid pushing for top honours across all competitions, patience is thin. This has led many to believe that a change of scenery could revive Rodrygo’s fortunes.

Arsenal’s Ambition and Rodrygo’s Versatility

At the top of the list of potential suitors is Arsenal, who are looking to make significant strides this summer. The club has already moved for Martín Zubimendi to shore up the midfield and now eyes bolstering the front line. Rodrygo, capable of playing across the attack, would bring added versatility.

Mikel Merino summed it up well in his comments to El Larguero: “I have a weakness for Rodrygo because of how he is as a player. He is technically exquisite… He’s a player I like a lot.” Arsenal could certainly use a player of that profile to offer depth and competition on the left flank, where both Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard have yet to cement the starting role decisively.

With Andrea Berta reportedly overseeing transfer operations, Arsenal’s shortlist includes Alexander Isak, Benjamin Šeško, Nico Williams, and Hugo Ekitike, but Rodrygo stands out for his pedigree and Champions League experience.

Manchester City, United and Chelsea Also Monitor Situation

Manchester City made a play for Rodrygo last summer after offloading Julián Álvarez to Atlético Madrid. The Brazilian declined at the time, saying, “For me it is the best team in the world, the one that plays the best football,” about City—an endorsement that may foreshadow future interest should things not improve at Madrid.

Meanwhile, both Manchester United and Chelsea are watching developments closely. United may need attacking reinforcements if Alejandro Garnacho departs, while Chelsea are reportedly ready to offload Christopher Nkunku after an underwhelming season. In both cases, Rodrygo’s availability could spark aggressive bids.

Liverpool, too, may enter the fray. Despite Luis Díaz’s desire to stay and Mohamed Salah’s contract renewal, the likely departure of Darwin Núñez means the Reds are still short in attack. Arne Slot will want fresh firepower—and Rodrygo fits the bill.

Photo IMAGO

Madrid’s Stance: Big Offers Only

Despite a €1 billion release clause, AS reports that Real Madrid would consider offers starting at around £84million. That still prices Rodrygo in an elite bracket, but it’s a fee within reach for Premier League clubs chasing titles and Champions League glory. As the summer window approaches, Rodrygo could become one of the headline names in the market.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

For Arsenal fans, the idea of Rodrygo in red and white is nothing short of mouthwatering. His ability to play on either wing or even behind the striker offers Arteta tremendous tactical flexibility. While Martinelli has had hot-and-cold spells and Trossard hasn’t fully convinced as a week-in, week-out starter, Rodrygo would elevate the attacking threat instantly.

From a strategic viewpoint, adding Rodrygo sends a message that Arsenal mean business. It’s not just about covering gaps—it’s about bringing in match-winners with experience at the highest level. At 24, Rodrygo also fits the profile of a player with peak years ahead of him, potentially thriving in Arteta’s fast, dynamic system.

The price tag is steep, yes—but this is Arsenal in a new era. If the club wants to break its long title drought, this is the calibre of signing required. And with Andrea Berta pulling the strings, there’s every chance Arsenal can pull this off. Let’s not forget, too, that Rodrygo’s affection for English football and past admiration for City could be a crack in the door. If Arsenal walk through it, they might just be signing the star of the season.