Arsenal’s hopes of signing Real Madrid winger Rodrygo Goes have suffered a serious setback, with reports from Spain revealing that Liverpool have entered the race for the Brazilian star. The Gunners had identified Rodrygo as a possible target to strengthen their attacking options, but competition is growing fast.
Arsenal’s Transfer Ambitions
Arsenal are actively working to build a title-winning squad ahead of the 2025/26 season. Manager Mikel Arteta and newly appointed sporting director Andrea Berta have focused on improving the team’s frontline. The club is nearing deals for Sporting Lisbon striker Viktor Gyökeres and Chelsea winger Noni Madueke, two promising additions.
However, the club has not ruled out bringing in a third attacking option, and Rodrygo had emerged as one of the most exciting names linked with a move to the Emirates Stadium.
Rodrygo’s Uncertain Future at Real Madrid
Despite playing a vital role for Real Madrid in past seasons, Rodrygo’s role at the club has recently come into question. He had a limited impact during the Club World Cup campaign, which sparked speculation that he might consider a move away from the Santiago Bernabéu.
Although he is still under contract and highly valued by Madrid, the possibility of a massive offer from abroad could tempt the Spanish giants to sell — especially with Kylian Mbappé and Endrick arriving.
Football.London also covered Arsenal’s interest in Rodrygo
Liverpool’s Surprise Move
According to Spanish newspaper AS and ESPN, Liverpool have officially opened talks with Real Madrid to explore the possibility of signing Rodrygo. While no bid has been made yet, reports suggest that an offer in the region of €100 million (£86.7 million) could be on the table.
This is a huge development and could disrupt Arsenal’s chances of signing the player. Liverpool's approach is believed to depend on the future of Colombian winger Luis Díaz, who is being targeted by several top clubs.
Luis Díaz Could Be Key
Luis Díaz is reportedly open to leaving Anfield, and several big clubs are interested in him:
- Bayern Munich
- Barcelona
- Clubs in Saudi Arabia
If Liverpool receive a strong bid for Díaz and choose to sell, they may go all-in on Rodrygo as his replacement. This puts Liverpool in a stronger financial position to make a high offer quickly — something that could challenge Arsenal's negotiation plans.
Rodrygo’s profile and stats on Transfermarkt
Strong Competition From Other Clubs
Liverpool are not the only ones watching the situation. Other top clubs have been linked with Rodrygo, including:
- Manchester City
- Paris Saint-Germain (PSG)
- Bayern Munich
With so many powerful clubs monitoring the situation, the transfer saga could become one of the biggest stories of the summer.
According to ESPN's transfer reports
Arsenal’s Dilemma: Spend Big or Walk Away?
Rodrygo is an elite-level player, and Real Madrid will not sell him cheaply. A price tag of nearly £90 million could make Arsenal reconsider their priorities. According to reports, Eberechi Eze from Crystal Palace is another option. Eze is versatile and has a £68 million release clause, making him a more affordable and flexible option for Arteta.
Read the full Viktor Gyökeres transfer update here
With Arsenal focusing on Gyökeres and Madueke, the club may have to decide whether to push hard for Rodrygo or go for a more financially sensible choice like Eze.
Check out the full list of Premier League derbies for the 2025/26 season
Arsenal’s pursuit of Rodrygo has become more complicated with Liverpool now in the picture. If Luis Díaz leaves, the Merseyside club may take the lead in the race for the Brazilian. Meanwhile, Arsenal have to make a decision quickly before losing out on one of their major targets.
Rodrygo’s future remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: the battle for his signature is only just beginning.
Source: Josh Holland – Sport Central | Reports from AS and ESPN
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