Arsenal fixtures: Premier League giants await in brutal opening run
Arsenal enter the 2025/26 Premier League season with growing expectations after consecutive second-place finishes and a Champions League semi-final run.
The 24-year-old Brazilian, unsettled at the Santiago Bernabeu, will hold crunch talks with Real Madrid president Florentino Perez on Monday to determine his next move, according to Spanish outlet Defensa Central.
With the transfer window heating up, the outcome of these discussions could spark a major Premier League move.
Rodrygo's frustration stems from his reduced role at Real Madrid following Kylian Mbappe's arrival last summer. Last season, under former manager Carlo Ancelotti, he started just 22 La Liga matches, often deployed on the right wing or as a centre-forward, despite his preference for the left wing.
New manager Xabi Alonso further limited his involvement, handing him only one start during the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. "Rodrygo is training well and in good spirits," Alonso said earlier this month, but added, "I'm sure he can return to his best form," hinting at the player's recent struggles.
Liverpool have emerged as frontrunners to secure Rodrygo, viewing him as a direct replacement for Luis Diaz, who recently joined Bayern Munich. Transfer expert Rudy Galetti reported that the Reds have engaged in talks with Rodrygo's representatives, with posts on X, confirming "discussions are underway" and that Liverpool's interest is "growing."
Sources indicate Real Madrid have set a 90 million euro valuation for Rodrygo, with additional add-ons expected, per Defensa Central.
Tottenham Hotspur have also entered the race, seeking a marquee signing to replace Heung-min Son, who is set to join LAFC in a deal worth up to 20 million pounds, according to The Standard.
Spanish outlet AS reported that Spurs chairman Daniel Levy contacted Rodrygo's camp, aiming to make the Brazilian the "crown jewel" of their new project under manager Thomas Frank. However, a post on X from @MarioCortegana suggested that Tottenham "is not an option that appeals" to Rodrygo, who reportedly prefers a move to Liverpool.
Arsenal, meanwhile, have shown interest in Rodrygo as a potential successor to Leandro Trossard, who has attracted attention from Brentford.
Football.london reported, that the Gunners are preparing an 80 million euro opening offer, though their pursuit could hinge on outgoing transfers to free up funds. "Arsenal love Rodrygo, but for it to happen, Trossard or Martinelli must depart," journalist Ben Jacobs told Latte Firm, noting the club's need to balance their budget after signing Viktor Gyokeres.
Former Liverpool winger Jermaine Pennant has passionately endorsed a move for Rodrygo to Anfield. "He's quick, powerful, direct, and very tricky to defend against," Pennant told Metro. "He fits a similar profile to Diaz, and I could see the fans really getting behind him."
Pennant's comments reflect the excitement surrounding Rodrygo's potential to bolster Liverpool's attack as they aim to defend their Premier League title.
With Real Madrid's squad overflowing with attacking talent, including Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, and Jude Bellingham, the club appear open to offers, provided they meet their steep valuation.
As Rodrygo returns from his post-Club World Cup holiday in the United States, his meeting with Perez could be the catalyst for a dramatic transfer saga.
Liverpool, Tottenham, and Arsenal await clarity, with the clock ticking toward the Premier League season opener on August 19.