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Real Madrid forward Rodrygo Goes is now expected to stay at the Santiago Bernabéu, despite strong interest from Premier League clubs including Arsenal and Chelsea. The Brazilian international had been considering a move away from the Spanish giants this summer but now appears keen to remain and fight for his place under incoming manager Xabi Alonso.
Speculation around Rodrygo’s future intensified earlier this month after he was left on the bench for the title-deciding El Clásico against Barcelona. Reports in Spain revealed the 24-year-old was growing frustrated at playing a secondary role behind stars like Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham. With Real Madrid reportedly demanding around €80 million (£67.5m), Arsenal and Chelsea had been monitoring the situation closely.
However, the landscape at Madrid has shifted following Carlo Ancelotti’s departure to take over the Brazil national team. According to Spanish outlet AS, Rodrygo’s current preference is to remain in Madrid and work under Alonso.
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The winger is said to be eager for talks with the new manager to understand the role he envisions for him. If Alonso does not see him as a key player, Rodrygo could still consider the growing number of offers he is receiving from England.
Real Madrid forward Rodrygo Goes (Image credit: Getty Images)Despite Arsenal’s interest, financial considerations may complicate a potential deal. Sky Germany reports that Rodrygo is seeking wages in the region of €10 million net per year — a figure that would likely exceed Arsenal’s current wage structure.
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Meanwhile, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has reaffirmed the club’s ambition to compete for the top names in the market this summer. Speaking this week, Arteta said: “If you want to win major trophies, you have to be the best in the market. The teams that win always have the best players at this level.”
He added: “We have brought the club into a position where next season we have to win a major trophy. That shows that people believe we are an elite team in this country and in Europe.”
Arsenal have also opened talks with RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko, with Arteta reportedly favouring the Slovenian over Sporting’s Viktor Gyokeres to strengthen his attacking options for next season.
As it stands, Rodrygo’s future will hinge on talks with Alonso in the coming weeks, but his preference is to remain at the Bernabéu — unless he is assured of a reduced role, which could reopen the door for a Premier League switch.
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