Arsenal eye Rodrygo but €100m price stalls January move

Fabrizio Romano confirmed that Arsenal remain keen on Real Madrid’s Brazilian winger Rodrygo, yet the club will not secure his signature in January as the player continues his rehabilitation from a serious ACL injury. Romano added that the Gunners have already started the season strongly, with four wins from their opening Premier League fixtures.

Romano said Arsenal will not sign Rodrygo in January as he works on his comeback. Real Madrid have set a €100m price tag, which the Gunners have not matched. The Brazilian remains under Real’s care while his fitness is monitored.

Arsenal’s attacking ambitions

Arsenal have bolstered their squad with Bruno Guimaraes in midfield and Ezri Konsa in defence, yet supporters argue the attack still lacks depth. The club brought in Christos Tzolis to replace Leandro Trossard, while Gabriel Martinelli and Gabriel Jesus have departed. A winger of Rodrygo’s calibre would give the Gunners a new dimension on the flanks.

Rodrygo suffered a serious ACL injury in March, derailing any immediate transfer. Romano noted an original expectation of a February return, but now Real Madrid believe he could be fit by December or January. The club insists they will not rush his recovery, preferring a full 100 percent return.

Earlier transfer chatter

Arsenal first targeted Rodrygo in the summer of 2025, but the move did not materialise. At that time Manchester City were considered a more realistic destination if a teammate left the club. Reports from 2025 claimed Rodrygo asked his agents to explore a new club, with Real Madrid demanding €100m.

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During the January 2026 window Arsenal were again linked with the winger, but the ACL injury ruled out any signing that year. Romano suggested a summer move could still be possible, although he warned it is too early to predict any concrete action.

Future possibilities

The Gunners’ impressive start – four wins from four Premier League matches – fuels speculation that they will revisit the Rodrygo target in the summer. Should Real Madrid entertain offers, Arsenal would need to meet the €100m valuation that has previously stalled negotiations.

Rodrygo expressed gratitude to Real Madrid for supporting his recovery, praising the club’s belief in him despite the setback. He remains committed to helping the Spanish side once he is fully fit.

For now, the situation stays under control, with Arsenal monitoring the Brazilian’s progress while Real Madrid focus on his rehabilitation.