‘Chelsea make decision on Rodrygo pursuit amid Arsenal links’
Real Madrid’s Rodrygo has been heavily linked with Arsenal over the past few weeks, and now London rivals Chelsea have made their decision on whether to pursue the winger.
This season, the Brazilian has managed six goals and five assists in the league, as well as finding the net five times in Europe for Los Blancos.
The 24-year-old joined Madrid from Brazilian side Santos back in 2019, and has won three league titles and two Champions League trophies during his time at the club.
Football Insider (13 May) exclusively revealed Rodrygo is on Arsenal’s shortlist ahead of the summer window, as Mikel Arteta looks to strengthen his squad.
However, Enzo Maresca is eager to add some attacking firepower to his side, and could also be interested in the forward.
Chelsea decide on Rodrygo
Chelsea are still in the midst of a ferocious battle for a top-five finish, with just one point separating fourth and seventh in the Premier League.
The Blues sit fifth, occupying the final Champions League spot, and need a win on the final day against Nottingham Forest to secure their place among Europe’s elite.
However, some of the focus is already on improving the squad at Stamford Bridge ahead of next season, and Chelsea are heavily linked with Real Madrid star Rodrygo.
However, Kieran Gill, sportswriter for the Mail (21 May), reported that the deal is unlikely, saying: “I’m hearing you should avoid pinning your hopes on a sensational swoop for the 24-year-old winger, even if the LaLiga giants do make him available for sale this summer.”
Chelsea must prioritise a No.9
Football Insider Verdict
If Chelsea can add quality to their wide positions, then they should, but it cannot come at the cost of failing to bring in a proven number nine.
Christopher Nkunku has been linked with a move away from Stamford Bridge, after a disappointing first season at the club has seen him find the net only three times in the Premier League.
| Player | Games | Goals | Assists |
| Jackson | 30 | 10 | 5 |
| Nkunku | 27 | 3 | 2 |
Chelsea are also becoming impatient with Nicolas Jackson, with the striker yet to fulfill his potential and presenting a disciplinary risk on the field.
Without an experienced goalscorer, Maresca has little chance of transforming his side into a team that can challenge for league titles.
Of course, there are other positions that need attention, and they can not only bring a striker in, but if they sort out their goalscoring problem, then it will go a long way to pushing them up the table.