Rodrygo to Arsenal transfer twist as Real Madrid make ambitious swap deal request for £112m star

Arsenal appear to have been dealt a blow to their hopes of signing Rodrygo. The Real Madrid winger continues to be heavily linked with a move to the Emirates Stadium as Mikel Arteta looks to bolster his attacking options this summer.

Rodrygo currently faces an uncertain future at the Santiago Bernabeu as he awaits assurances from Xabi Alonso about his game time. Upon the former Liverpool midfielder’s unveiling as the new Los Blancos manager, he ruled out the Brazil international’s departure.

Despite claiming that Rodrygo was in his plans, Alonso has only given him 92 minutes to impress at the Club World Cup. Gonzalo Garcia has enjoyed an electric start to life under the Spaniard, taking significant minutes from the the 24-year-old.

It’s understood that Arsenal are interested in Rodrygo, but any move would be complicated at the moment. So, with that being said, football.london has rounded up everything you need to know about Rodrygo and a potential transfer to Arsenal.

Real Madrid ‘outline swap deal demand’

According to Spanish outlet Defensa Central, Paris Saint-Germain have joined the race to sign Rodrygo. The report claims Real Madrid would be willing to let the Brazilian join Luis Enrique’s side so long as they receive Vitinha in return as part of a swap deal.

The Mirror reckon that Los Blancos want in excess of £70m for Rodrygo, who has three years left on his contract at the Santiago Bernabeu. Meanwhile, Defensa Central claims that Vitinha would cost no less than €130m (£112m).

Alonso provides Rodrygo update

Earlier this month, Alonso provided an update on Rodrygo’s future at Real Madrid. Speaking to reporters at the Club World Cup, the former Bayer Leverkusen boss tipped the Arsenal target to find his feet in the new system.

“I’m sure Rodrygo can return to his best form,” said Alonso. “I spoke with him; he’s positive, eager, and ready when needed.”

A few days prior, following a 1-0 win over Juventus, the Real Madrid gaffer said: “After the game I try to approach everyone I meet along the way. He had a few minutes [against Salzburg] that were important for him and he will be important.

“In these championships, sometimes those who start are just as important as those who come in. They can have a decisive impact, so each player has to be prepared for whatever comes their way.

“Everyone is in a good disposition. Rodrygo is training well and I see him in good spirits. Then it’s my decision who plays.”

Arteta flattered by Rodrygo reports

Speaking to reporters ahead of the Gunners’ final game of the season, Arteta was asked about Rodrygo. The Spaniard said: “I wouldn’t like to name a player.

“But the biggest thing is that, and using the word pride, we have brought the club into a position, into a place that next season you have to win a major trophy.

“That means that everybody believes that we have the level, that we have shown the consistency, and we are an elite team in this country and in Europe and if you don’t do that, then what is going to happen?

“For me that is the biggest statement, that Arsenal is there…”