Arsenal have received a significant boost in their pursuit of Real Madrid’s Rodrygo, as Chelsea have reportedly stepped back from the race to sign the Brazilian winger. With Rodrygo’s contract at Santiago Bernabeu set to expire in 2028, the Gunners are keen to bolster their attacking options this summer. Despite featuring prominently in La Liga this season, Rodrygo has struggled to cement his place in Real Madrid’s starting lineup, prompting Arsenal’s interest. According to Sky Sports Germany journalist Florian Plettenberg, negotiations are already underway, although the deal is expected to be challenging.
Maresca said: “I’m not able to answer now because I don’t know the other part, if a number 9 was here. For sure, with us, in my personal opinion, he has grown and improved a lot. Now, if another number nine was here is it better for him? The Blues boss said: “It’s also been bad luck because, the West Ham game [in February] if you remember, unfortunately Marc Guiu is still out from then and Nico was out for more than two months, [injured] in the same game. This is a little bit of bad luck,” Maresca added.
Arteta said: “Finish the season, go to the beach, enjoy a few days and make sure the ones upstairs – they do what they have to do.”
Declan Rice added: “Hopefully we strengthen…”
Chelsea’s decision to not pursue Rodrygo stems from concerns over his wage demands, which do not align with their current financial model. Instead, Chelsea manager Maresca is focusing on acquiring a new striker, as he believes this would better suit the team’s needs. This development leaves Arsenal in a stronger position to secure Rodrygo’s services, as they continue to explore all possible avenues to make the transfer feasible.
The Gunners are actively seeking to enhance their squad ahead of the upcoming season, and Rodrygo’s potential arrival would be a significant addition to Mikel Arteta’s attacking arsenal. With Chelsea out of the picture, Arsenal’s chances of landing the Brazilian international have considerably improved. As the transfer window approaches, Arsenal fans will be eagerly awaiting further developments in the club’s pursuit of Rodrygo.
