Real Madrid’s Rodrygo U-turn Opens Door For £85m Arsenal Deal

Rodrygo’s future hangs in the balance, with Xabi Alonso and Real Madrid officials reportedly open to a summer exit if a suitable offer is made, amid links to Arsenal.

Rodrygo was once seen as a key asset for Madrid but gradually fell out of Carlo Ancelotti’s plans last season. The 24-year-old scored just six league goals as the club ended the campaign trophyless for the first time in four years, leading to Ancelotti’s departure.

According to The Athletic, serious concerns emerged within Real Madrid’s hierarchy midway through last season regarding Rodrygo’s motivation levels in training, with hopes that the winger would respond positively.

However, Rodrygo’s father and agent, Eric Goes, has reportedly voiced internal frustrations, claiming his son’s situation is inextricably tied to the dominant presence of Jude Bellingham, Kylian Mbappe, and Vinicius Junior.

The report suggests these comments have not been well received by the club, prompting Madrid to consider a potential transfer. Xabi Alonso is said to have approved the player’s possible departure.

“Rodrygo is a Real Madrid player, and I will speak with everyone who is part of Real Madrid,” Alonso told reporters after being appointed as Madrid’s head coach.

“Rodrygo is a spectacular player and we will need him. He deserves it and so do we.”

Asked about Rodrygo’s situation in the build-up to Madrid’s opening Club World Cup clash with Al-Hilal, Alonso said: “I know what had happened in the final stretch [of last season], it was not easy for him.

“He took some time to reset his head and I see him wanting to enjoy and contribute.”

But Rodrygo has been limited to just 23 minutes since starting Madrid’s 1-1 draw with Al-Hilal, and it appears Alonso is already preparing for the prospect of life without the Brazilian next season.

On Tuesday evening, the two-time Champions League winner was left as an unused substitute as Madrid edged out Juventus to reach the quarter-finals, where they will face Borussia Dortmund.

Rodrygo’s contract in Madrid runs until June 2028, with Real Madrid valuing him at around £85 million, while Arsenal view him as their primary left winger target.

Standard.co.uk