Credit: Imago

Evan Lloyd

Tue 3 March 2026 17:00, UK

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Arsenal are among the Premier League sides who will be forced to alter their potential transfer plans after Rodrygo tore his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL).

The Gunners and Liverpool were extensively linked with the Brazilian last summer, but the winger ultimately decided to stay put.

After a season in which his minutes have been cut dramatically, however, this summer may have been the one in which he sought a move elsewhere.

But after Rodrygo went down injured in the final seconds of Real Madrid’s narrow loss to Getafe on Monday, scans have reportedly revealed the worst possible news – an ACL tear.

Man City were lining up a move for Rodrygo this summer, but those plans will have to be put on hold for now.

Rodrygo set to miss the World Cup

Football Insider was exclusively told by former Man City financial adviser Stefan Borson that Tottenham could sign Rodrygo.

Any idea of what would have been a sensational move is likely put to bed by Tottenham’s potential relegation, but the winger’s injury has confirmed that he will be staying put in Madrid this summer.

Marca reports on Tuesday that, in what is described as a “devastating blow”, it has been discovered that Rodrygo has torn the ACL in his right knee. The news has since been confirmed by Real Madrid.

The Brazilian had just returned from almost a month on the injury table dealing with tendinitis, and this latest blow will be severe.

Not only has Rodrygo been ruled out of any potential summer move, but he is set to miss the World Cup with Brazil.

The 25-year-old will likely return midway through next season, with ACL injuries usually requiring a recovery period close to a year.

Who will Premier League clubs target instead?

Premier League clubs are constantly on the hunt for wingers, with several under consideration ahead of this summer.

RB Leipzig forward Yan Diomande is one forward attracting particular interest, with the 19-year-old impressing massively in the Bundesliga.

The likes of Maghnes Akliouche and Said El Mala are also expected to be under consideration.

Much of the interest may well come from within the Premier League, however, with Iliman Ndiaye and Yankuba Minteh both impressing this season.