Home of football statistics and historyArsenal have yet to make an official move for Real Madrid winger Rodrygo this summer, according to Spanish journalist Guillem Balague.
Signing a new winger could be the final piece in the jigsaw for the Gunners as they strive to mount a sustained challenge for the Premier League title this season.
‘Zero offers’ made for Madrid winger
Mikel Arteta’s side went into the new campaign as the second favourites for the title behind reigning champions Liverpool after splashing the cash this summer.
The oddsmakers at Puntit UK rate Arsenal as 2/1 shots to win the Premier League following their hard-fought 1-0 victory at Manchester United on Sunday.
The Gunners’ hopes of claiming top spot would be boosted if they signed Rodrygo, but Balague claims they have not contacted Madrid.
“Now Manchester City have decided to keep Savinho, the option of Rodrygo going there is over,” Balague wrote on social media.
“Rodrygo has not told Madrid he wants to leave and there have been zero offers for him at his point.
“Madrid are asking for €100 million, but closer to the end of the market they would accept less (€60-70m?). But, as it stands, nobody expects him to leave.
“Madrid doubt that Rodrygo would accept an offer from Newcastle United if it ever arrives and insist Arsenal have not made an approach at this point.”
Alonso happy with the competition for places
Having missed the chance to sign Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze this summer, Rodrygo is potentially an ideal target for Arsenal.
They may be waiting until closer to the end of the summer transfer window before moving in the hope of negotiating a more suitable price for the 24-year-old.
A €60-70m fee would represent decent value for a player with Rodrygo’s skillset and would give Arteta another attacking tool to go to war with.
Gabriel Martinelli produced a dismal performance in the season opener at Old Trafford and Arsenal need to sign an upgrade if they want to challenge for silverware.
Rodrygo could be the ideal fit on the left flank, although his versatility would allow him to cover several different attacking roles for the Gunners.
After struggling for opportunities at the Club World Cup in the United States this summer, Rodrygo’s future at the club looked uncertain.
However, ahead of Madrid’s first league game against Osasuna, new manager Xabi Alonso claimed the winger is a valued member of his squad.
“I’m counting on everyone here,” Alonso said. “I want them all to be at 100 percent – we need them. We need the right attitude and energy, and I’m counting on everyone.
“I know that competition is fantastic, and I love having two players who can play in every position, guys who want to show why they deserve their place. Then it’s down to me to make the choice.
“Sometimes, I’ll have to share out the minutes, but I think there are lots of positions that are very well stocked.
“There are always rumours during summer, but he looks good to me – he’s part of my plans.
“I want every one of the players here to be feeling part of the team, doing their bit, and performing at 100 percent. That’s all I’m concerned with right now.”
The situation could change if Rodrygo does not feature for Madrid during the early part of the season and Arsenal will likely be keeping a close eye on developments.
The summer transfer window is scheduled to close on September 1 and the Gunners still have time to complete more business if the opportunity arises.
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