Sources: Arsenal told to pay £90m to complete Rodrygo deal
Rodrygo is on Arsenal’s list of attacking targets as he looks to get more minutes ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
The Brazilian has long been linked with a move to the Premier League which has become even more likely due to his sporadic role at Real Madrid under Xabi Alonso this season.
Over the summer, sources told Football Insider that Man City considered a move for Rodrygo which ultimately never materialised as they decided to hold on to Savinho.
Similarly, Liverpool’s move for Rodrygo also collapsed in the summer as Arsenal now consider making a bold play to bring him to north London.
January transfer unlikely for Rodrygo given ‘costly’ fee
As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, the Gunners may have to wait until next summer to go after the Brazil international.
Arsenal did try to sign Rodrygo last summer but a move never happened due to los Blancos extortionate asking price.
Speaking on the Inside Track podcast with Alonso unlikely to budge on the eye-watering transfer fee required, I explained: “Nothing certain on that.
“Obviously, he will be unhappy probably with his lack of minutes in the Real Madrid team under Xabi Alonso.
“I think he’s only played 250 minutes of football in nine La Liga matches so far this season. So, look, that’s not ideal for Rodrygo.
“There was a lot of speculation over the summer of a potential move to the Premier League with Arsenal, Spurs, Liverpool, links, but the player decided to stay at Real Madrid and fight for his place after being given reassurances by Xabi Alonso.
“If his first team opportunities don’t improve, it’s something he might look at again. I don’t imagine a move would happen in January.
“Such a big costly move as this. You’re probably looking around £80-90million for somebody like Rodrygo.
“I don’t think anybody from those interested clubs would be willing to do that in the January window.”
Arsenal continue back-and-forth with Spanish sides as Barcelona eye up Martin Odegaard
Given the extortionate £90m asking price by Real Madrid for Rodrygo, the Gunners will need to raise some significant funds.
Sources told Football Insider that Barcelona are targeting Martin Odegaard to improve their squad depth in midfield.
Mikel Arteta is adamant the Norwegian is not for sale and will block any approaches from the Blaugrana for the club captain.
Yet, if the Spaniard sees Rodrygo as the player to take his side to the next level, he may reconsider letting go of his prized playmaker to fund the move.