Arsenal appear to have shifted their attention to another Brazilian attacker at Real Madrid after failing to secure a move for Vinicius Junior during the summer transfer window.
The Gunners are reportedly now exploring the possibility of signing Rodrygo, with reports from SportBible and TeamTalk claiming that Arsenal have already made contact with Real Madrid regarding the 25-year-old winger.
The interest comes as Arsenal continue to look for additional attacking options, particularly on the left side.
That need became more apparent following the departures of Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard during the summer. Arsenal have already added Christos Tzolis to their attacking options, but Rodrygo could offer a different level of experience and versatility.
The Brazilian’s current injury situation, however, could make any potential transfer more complicated.
Arsenal Shift Focus to Rodrygo
Arsenal’s interest in Rodrygo is not entirely new.
The Real Madrid winger was reportedly already one of the players admired by the Gunners before suffering a serious knee injury in March 2026.
Despite the setback, Arsenal’s interest is said to have remained intact.
According to the reports, the North London club have now made contact with Real Madrid to explore whether a potential deal could be possible.
Rodrygo’s profile makes him an interesting option for Mikel Arteta as Arsenal look to strengthen their attacking depth.
The 25-year-old has extensive experience at the highest level with Real Madrid and Brazil, while his ability to operate in multiple attacking positions gives him tactical flexibility.
For Arsenal, that versatility could be particularly valuable as they look to maintain options across a demanding campaign.
Vinicius Junior Move Did Not Happen
Before Rodrygo became the reported focus, Arsenal were linked with his Brazil teammate Vinicius Junior.
The Gunners were interested in bringing the Real Madrid superstar to London during the summer, but their efforts ultimately did not result in a transfer.
Arsenal were also linked with another Real Madrid forward, Endrick, during their search for attacking reinforcements.
However, the club’s only addition to the wing position so far has been Christos Tzolis.
The shift from Vinicius to Rodrygo therefore represents another potential route for Arsenal as they continue to assess attacking targets.
While the two players have different characteristics, both possess experience in elite European football and can operate from wide attacking positions.
Rodrygo Still Recovering From Knee Injury
The biggest factor surrounding a possible Rodrygo transfer is his current fitness.
The Brazilian remains in the recovery process after suffering his knee injury in March 2026.
Rodrygo is reportedly working hard to return to competitive football as quickly as possible, with a target of making his comeback in December 2026.
However, Real Madrid are not expected to take unnecessary risks with his recovery.
The Spanish giants are reportedly prioritising Rodrygo’s physical condition rather than rushing him back into competitive action.
That could have a direct impact on Arsenal’s potential plans.
A January 2027 move could theoretically be possible if Rodrygo returns to full fitness before the turn of the year. However, a transfer during the summer of 2027 may represent a more realistic scenario.
Why Rodrygo Fits Arsenal’s Attacking Plans
One of Rodrygo’s biggest strengths is his ability to play in different attacking positions.
While he has often operated from the wing, his qualities allow him to contribute in several areas of the forward line.
That flexibility could appeal to Arteta.
Arsenal are looking for attacking players who can provide more than just width. The ability to move into different positions, combine with teammates and understand tactical instructions is increasingly important in Arteta’s system.
Rodrygo’s technical qualities and experience could therefore make him an attractive profile for the Gunners.
His versatility could give Arsenal several tactical options, particularly when injuries, rotation or the demands of the schedule require changes to the starting lineup.
Rodrygo’s Real Madrid Record
Rodrygo joined Real Madrid from Santos in 2019 and has since established himself as an important part of the club’s attacking group.
According to the figures provided, the Brazilian has registered:
- 71 goals for Real Madrid
- 57 assists
- A career at the club dating back to 2019
- Experience at international level with Brazil
- The ability to operate in multiple attacking positions
Those numbers underline the experience Rodrygo would potentially bring to Arsenal.
At 25, he would also arrive with considerable experience while still being at an age where he could remain an important part of a squad for several seasons.
However, his recovery from the knee injury will remain a key consideration before any potential move develops further.
Rodrygo’s Contract Could Shape the Transfer
Another important factor is Rodrygo’s contract situation.
The Brazilian remains under contract with Real Madrid until June 2028.
That gives Los Blancos significant control over his future. If the club eventually decides to sell, the summer of 2027 could become an important point in the conversation.
With only one year remaining on his contract after June 2027, Real Madrid could potentially face a decision over whether to negotiate a major transfer or consider their longer-term plans for the player.
For Arsenal, that could make the summer transfer window particularly interesting if their interest remains strong.
A January 2027 transfer would come much sooner, but Rodrygo’s fitness and recovery timeline could make that scenario more difficult.
Arsenal and Rodrygo: What Happens Next?
For now, the reported contact between Arsenal and Real Madrid represents an early stage rather than confirmation of a transfer.
Several factors would have to align before Rodrygo could become an Arsenal player.
The key issues include:
- Rodrygo’s recovery: His return to competitive football will be crucial.
- Real Madrid’s position: Los Blancos still control the player’s contract until 2028.
- Arsenal’s attacking plans: The Gunners continue to assess their options in wide areas.
- Transfer timing: January 2027 is theoretically possible, while summer 2027 could be a more realistic window.
- Player availability: Arsenal would need to determine whether Rodrygo can return to his previous level after injury.
For now, Arsenal’s interest gives another layer to the club’s search for attacking reinforcements.
After missing out on Vinicius Junior, the Gunners have reportedly turned their attention toward another Brazilian star at Real Madrid.
Whether Rodrygo eventually becomes Arsenal’s next major attacking addition will depend on his recovery, Real Madrid’s stance and how the situation develops over the coming months.
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