Arsenal’s long-running interest in Real Madrid star Rodrygo could be under serious threat, with Manchester City now weighing up a sensational late move for the Brazilian forward.
Pep Guardiola is considering Rodrygo as a potential replacement if both Savinho and Jack Grealish leave the Etihad before the transfer window closes. Savinho is reportedly eager to join Tottenham Hotspur, while Grealish is close to sealing a loan switch to Everton.
Rodrygo’s future in Madrid has been uncertain all summer. Despite his impressive record of 50 goals over the past three seasons and a Champions League winners’ medal, the 23-year-old has slipped down the pecking order under new boss Xabi Alonso. Reports from Spain suggest the winger felt undervalued last season and has been left frustrated by limited game time during pre-season and the Club World Cup.
Arsenal have been monitoring the situation for months but have yet to make an official move, instead also keeping tabs on Crystal Palace playmaker Eberechi Eze. That hesitancy could give City the opening they need. The Brazilian is valued at around £87 million, making him a marquee target for Guardiola’s attacking rebuild.
City’s spending power could be boosted if Savinho’s proposed move to Tottenham goes through. The 21-year-old only joined City from Troyes last summer but made a strong impact in his debut campaign. Spurs will need to submit a significant bid to convince City to sell. Meanwhile, Grealish’s departure would also ease the wage bill, with Everton expected to cover the majority of his £300,000-a-week salary along with a sizeable loan fee — potentially taking the total cost past £12 million.
Guardiola has already strengthened his squad with several notable signings this summer, including Rayan Cherki from Lyon, midfielder Tijjani Reijnders from AC Milan, and Rayan Aït-Nouri from Wolves. But securing Rodrygo would be the statement move City fans have been waiting for as they look to bounce back from their most disappointing season since 2016/17.
With both Arsenal and City now circling, the battle for Rodrygo’s signature could be one of the defining transfer stories of the summer.
