‘Arsenal and Liverpool leading hunt for 14-goal rival star’
Liverpool and Arsenal are both looking to bolster their attacking options ahead of next season.
Mikel Arteta’s side are keen to add firepower to their ranks after failing to seriously challenge Liverpool in the Premier League title race, and could make a move for AC Milan’s Rafael Leao if Gabriel Martinelli leaves North London.
Meanwhile, both the Anfield club and the Gunners are set to battle for the signature of Brighton forward Joao Pedro, as exclusively revealed by Football Insider.
Liverpool are also expected to facilitate the exit of Darwin Nunez, who is set to choose between a move to La Liga or the Saudi Pro League.
Liverpool and Arsenal lead the race to sign Christopher Nkunku
Chelsea star Christopher Nkunku has scored 14 goals in 42 appearances across all competitions for the Stamford Bridge outfit this term, despite encountering injury setbacks.
| Christopher Nkunku stats | 2024/25 all competitions |
| Appearances | 42 |
| Goals | 14 |
| Assists | 5 |
According to The Sun [19 May], Liverpool and Arsenal are both eyeing a move for the France international alongside the likes of Manchester United, West Ham, PSG, and Atletico Madrid.
The report adds that Nkunku is thought to prefer a move to a club in the Champions League, making Liverpool, Arsenal, PSG, and Atletico the leading contenders for his signature.
Rodrygo price tag emerges amid Arsenal and Liverpool interest
While both Liverpool and Arsenal are keen on Nkunku, the Premier League rivals have also set their sights on a move for Real Madrid star Rodrygo.
The Brazil international has notched 14 goals and nine assists in 51 appearances across all competitions for Los Blancos, including six goals in 30 La Liga outings.
Rodrygo has not scored for Carlo Ancelotti’s side since their Champions League last 16 tie with local rivals Atletico back in March, but the Gunners and the Reds remain keen on his services.
Meanwhile, speaking on Football Insider’s Inside Track Podcast, senior correspondent Pete O’Rourke revealed that Los Blancos will demand £100million for Rodrygo this summer.
It remains to be seen whether Liverpool or Arsenal are willing to sanction that hefty sum for the 24-year-old, or if they will instead opt to acquire the services of Nkunku instead.
Nkunku boasts Premier League experience over the Brazilian, but Rodrygo has won three La Liga titles and two Champions League trophies in his time in the Spanish capital.