Arsenal are eyeing a bold summer swoop for Real Madrid star Rodrygo, and they’ve already received glowing internal approval.
Arsenal Midfielder Tells Andrea Berta: Rodrygo Is the Striker We Need
Midfielder Mikel Merino, who joined the Gunners earlier this year, has publicly praised the Brazilian forward, giving technical director Andrea Berta more reason to push for the deal.
With Arsenal looking to strengthen their attack ahead of the 2025/26 season, Rodrygo has emerged as a serious target.
According to Sky Sports journalist Florian Plettenberg, talks are already underway behind the scenes, with Arsenal exploring all possible options to bring the 24-year-old to the Emirates.
Merino’s recent comments about Rodrygo may influence the club’s stance.
“It’s hard to pick one, but I’d probably say Rodrygo,” Merino said when asked which Real Madrid player he’d love to team up with.
“I’m not saying he’s underrated, but he’s a player I really like: fast, physical, technical, he has great one-on-one skills, and he’s good in space. Very complete.”
Rodrygo, who has already made 267 appearances for Real Madrid, boasts an impressive resume with three La Liga titles and two Champions League trophies.
Despite playing alongside world-class talent like Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Jr., Rodrygo continues to shine. Even Jude Bellingham called him “the most talented and most gifted player” at Madrid.
With Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz both sidelined due to injuries for large parts of the season, Arsenal’s lack of cutting-edge finishing has been exposed.
They’ve scored 18 fewer goals than title rivals Liverpool, highlighting their need for a proven forward.
While Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyökeres remains a prime target — and is said to have agreed terms with Arsenal — Rodrygo presents a more versatile and experienced option.
He can play across the front line and brings a winning mentality that could prove invaluable in the Gunners’ title challenge.
Andrea Berta now faces a key decision. But with endorsements like Merino’s and Rodrygo’s elite pedigree, the case for signing the Brazilian looks stronger than ever.
