Xabi Alonso has warned the Real Madrid board that he is ‘counting’ on Rodrygo and doesn’t want him to leave this summer, it has been claimed.
The Brazilian, 24, has been linked with a move to Arsenal this summer. Reports have claimed that Rodrygo is ‘high’ on the Gunners’ summer shortlist as the club attempt to strengthen their attack.
After arriving in a £39.3million deal from Santos in June 2018, Rodrygo has spent the last seven years at Real Madrid, winning 13 major honours, including the Champions League twice and La Liga three times. In that time, he has made 267 appearances, scoring 68 goals and adding 50 assists.
However, Rodrygo was said to have been ‘frustrated’ under former boss Carlo Ancelotti because he was not playing in his preferred position, which is thought to be on the left-hand side of the attack. Kylian Mbappe’s arrival from Paris Saint-Germain and Vinicius Jr’s presence is believed to have impacted Rodrygo.
But with Ancelotti now the Brazil manager and Alonso replacing him at Santiago Bernabeu, the situation has changed for Rodrygo. The Spanish media has reported this week that despite interest from Arsenal, Rodrygo is willing to fight for his place at Real Madrid after holding talks with Alonso.
Now, according to UOL, new Real Madrid head coach Alonso has notified the club’s hierarchy that he is relying on Rodrygo next season and is against a transfer to a European rival this summer. It’s added that it now appears the £85m-rated forward is going to stay in Madrid for at least one more season.
While Rodrygo is keen to remain at Real Madrid alongside Alonso, Arsenal centre-back Gabriel would love to sign him. Speaking on the Podpah Podcast, Gabriel was asked about Rodrygo and the prospect of him moving to the Emirates: “I don’t (know). No, I don’t, not really. But I’d like obviously.
“Rodrygo is a phenomenon for me. He’s not at Arsenal… If it depended on me, I’ve told people already, he’s a phenomenon. His name is mentioned a lot. If it was up to me, of course.”
Elsewhere, Arsenal want to sign a new No.9. A report from Portugal claimed last week that Arsenal are expected to raise their offer for Viktor Gyokeres. The Gunners lodged their first proposal – worth £46.8m plus bonuses – but Sporting CP are holding out for a much higher fee.
Arsenal are anticipated to make a second bid in the region of £59.6m, including bonuses. Sporting are said to have a good relationship with the Gunners and are ready for a new round of negotiations.
