Arsenal is predicted to completely reverse course on the "world-class" talent following the Viktor Gyokeres transfer.

Rodrigo to arsenal?Gunners May Pull the Plug Unless Key Winger Is Sold

Arsenal’s hopes of signing Real Madrid forward Rodrygo Goes may be fading fast, as new reports suggest the North London club could abandon their pursuit unless one of their senior wingers is sold this summer.

The Brazilian star has become a hot topic of discussion during the current transfer window.

Despite showcasing undeniable talent, Rodrygo has grown increasingly frustrated with his situation at the Bernabeu. 

He’s been vocal about his desire to play more regularly and, in particular, his preference for the left-hand side of Madrid’s attack—a position that’s already heavily occupied.

Now, with Madrid legend Xabi Alonso taking charge and already stamping his authority on team selection, Rodrygo’s frustrations have grown deeper. 

During the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, he started just once under Alonso, raising fresh doubts about his long-term role at the club.

This uncertainty has sparked serious interest from Premier League sides, including Liverpool and Arsenal.

Liverpool have been linked with Rodrygo in light of Luis Díaz’s potential switch to Bayern Munich, but respected journalist James Pearce has played down the intensity of those talks, suggesting that any move to Anfield may not be imminent.

Arsenal, meanwhile, have been heavily tipped to make a move for the Brazilian winger. 

Reports previously indicated that the Gunners were ready to table a bid of around €80 million (£69.3m). 

That fee might seem steep, but considering Rodrygo’s skillset and the endorsement he’s received from top names—Madrid icon Luka Modric once described him as a “world-class superstar”—the price could be justified.

However, transfer insider Ben Jacobs has poured cold water on the likelihood of a Rodrygo move to the Emirates unless there’s a major outflow from Arsenal's current squad.

Speaking on the Latte Firm Podcast, Jacobs made it clear that while Arsenal genuinely admire Rodrygo, their current squad balance and financial considerations mean that a deal is complicated.

“Arsenal love Rodrygo, no question,” Jacobs said. “But if it’s going to happen, either Leandro Trossard or Gabriel Martinelli would need to leave, and even then, the total package would have to be financially viable.”

He further explained that while Andrea Berta, Arsenal's recently involved recruitment expert, has shown his ability to negotiate tough deals—pointing to the reduced fee for Viktor Gyökeres from Sporting CP—the total cost for Rodrygo is still seen as high. 

Real Madrid are reportedly open to selling the player for around €90 million (£78m), but when wages, agent fees, and bonuses are added, the deal begins to lose appeal for the North London club.

If Real Madrid agree to sell at that €90m mark, there’s still a huge financial mountain to climb,” Jacobs added.

Unless Arsenal raise significant funds from player sales and Berta works some serious magic, they just don't see the value right now 

With Gyökeres expected to complete his move to Arsenal within days, and with Noni Madueke also brought in to strengthen the attack, it’s becoming more likely that Arsenal’s interest in Rodrygo may have cooled significantly.

That sentiment is being echoed in Spain, too. Cadena SER, one of the country’s most reputable sports outlets, reported back on July 16 that Arsenal were unlikely to move forward with a bid for Rodrygo following their successful signings earlier in the window.

Then, on July 22, AS, a publication closely connected to Real Madrid’s inner circle, stated that Arsenal’s interest had become “cold,” implying that the Gunners have shifted their focus elsewhere. 

With Real Madrid remaining firm on their valuation of Rodrygo and no indication of a discount on the horizon, it appears the pursuit is simply too complex at this stage.

Meanwhile, the Gunners are still active in other areas of the market. Fraser Fletcher, a trusted correspondent for TheSportMoment, recently revealed the amount Arsenal are prepared to offer for Crystal Palace playmaker Eberechi Eze.

Though no deal has yet materialized, it’s clear that Mikel Arteta and sporting director Edu are exploring multiple creative options to bolster their attack.

On the outbound side, TheSportMoment also reported via journalist Darren Witcoop that Fulham have expressed interest in signing one Arsenal player this summer, although the identity of the player remains undisclosed.

In conclusion, while Arsenal’s admiration for Rodrygo is genuine, it’s clear that unless there are major changes to their squad and budget, the Brazilian’s move to the Emirates is unlikely. 

The club seems to be prioritizing balance, sustainability, and strategic recruitment, especially in a summer where UEFA’s financial regulations loom large over many big spenders.

As it stands, unless an unexpected sale of Martinelli or Trossard takes place—and unless Real Madrid lower their demands—Rodrygo’s future likely lies elsewhere.

Still, in football, things can change quickly. One transfer domino can trigger a chain reaction.

For now, Arsenal fans may want to focus on players who are closer to being sealed deals—like Gyökeres—while keeping one eye on how Rodrygo’s story unfolds in Madrid.