As per reports, Arsenal are set to face stiff competition from Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr and Al-Hilal in their pursuit of Real Madrid forward Rodrygo. The Gunners have been heavily linked with a move for the Brazilian this summer as they look to bolster their attacking line.
Multiple reports have suggested that Rodrygo could be open to leaving the Santiago Bernabeu in search of regular playing time. Towards the end of the 2024-25 season, the 24-year-old reportedly fell out of favour with former manager Carlo Ancelotti, leading to uncertainty about his future at the club. Los Blancos now have a new manager in Xabi Alonso, but Rodrygo’s future still hangs in the balance.
The Brazilian has been linked with a move to the Premier League, with Chelsea and Arsenal named as possible suitors. Although they have not made an official bid for Rodrygo, the Gunners are reportedly more keen on acquiring his services.
However, according to Fichajes (via Gooner News), Mikel Arteta’s side could now be forced to make a move for Rodrygo as Al-Nassr and Al-Hilal also want him. The Saudi Pro League sides are reportedly ready to table a £110 million bid to sign the Real Madrid forward. Both clubs also plan to offer the Brazilian a mouthwatering multi-million dollar contract to convince him to move to Saudi Arabia.
Should the Gunners lose out on Rodrygo to either of the Saudi clubs, they would have to shift focus to other targets. Arsenal have also been linked with a move for Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams. The Spaniard is reportedly open to a move to the Emirates and has a release clause worth £48 million.
As per Fichajes (via Madrid Universal), Arsenal will attempt to sign Brahim Diaz if they fail to get Rodrygo. The latter is reportedly the Gunners’ dream target this summer, but is likely to cost a fortune amid interest from other suitors.
The north London outfit are now considering alternatives and have identified Diaz as an option if they fail to land Rodrygo. The Moroccan forward’s future at Santiago Bernabeu is currently uncertain with the arrival of Xabi Alonso.
Diaz is contracted to Los Blancos until 2027, but could be tempted by the opportunity to play in the Premier League. Arsenal are reportedly ready to offer £50 million for the 25-year-old.
A Chelsea fan, Okenna had his first tryst with Blues in 2006, after fellow countryman John Mikel Obi joined the west London club. He was immediately drawn to the brilliance of players like Frank Lampard, Joe Cole, John Terry and Didier Drogba.
Okenna is a huge fan of Lionel Messi for his exceptional talent. He also admires Jose Mourinho for his achievements with various clubs which proves he’s a tactical and disciplined manger as well as a serial winner.
Some of Okenna’s prospective career landmarks include working as an international journalist and covering a FIFA World Cup game live from the stadium. When not writing, he loves watching, movies and reading books.
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