At one point, it looked like Arsenal had a genuine shot at signing Rodrygo Goes from Real Madrid. Mikel Arteta had long admired the Brazilian winger, and reports even claimed he was the manager’s dream signing for the left wing. But as things stand now, that door seems firmly shut.
Despite early talks and serious interest, Arsenal’s summer plans have taken a different direction and that’s opened the door wide for Liverpool, who now seem more determined than ever to make Rodrygo one of their marquee signings this summer.
Arsenal’s Transfer Window: Ambition and Change
Let’s start with Arsenal. They’ve been busy this summer. Really busy. After finishing second again in the Premier League and falling just short of Manchester City, there’s clearly no intention to stand still.
They’ve already brought in Martin Zubimendi, who adds quality and control in midfield, Christian Nørgaard to offer depth and defensive cover, and Kepa Arrizabalaga on a smart deal to bolster their goalkeeping options. That’s about £75 million spent so far.
But it doesn’t stop there. Arsenal are also expected to finalize moves for Sporting striker Viktor Gyökeres, Chelsea’s Noni Madueke, and Valencia defender Cristhian Mosquera.
That would push their total spend to over £200 million, putting them in direct competition with Chelsea as the league’s biggest summer spenders.
They’ve also been in talks with Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze. That deal is still alive, and there’s every indication Eze would be open to the move. But the big name many fans were buzzing about was Rodrygo, and it looks like that buzz might be fading.
Rodrygo and Arsenal: The Early Connection
Back in May, transfer insider Ben Jacobs revealed that Arsenal’s interest in Rodrygo was real. Not just media noise or casual scouting, the club had held talks with his camp and explored what a move might look like.
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“Arsenal hold a genuine interest in Rodrygo and have held exploratory talks on the player side dating back to May,” Jacobs said. “Understand Real Madrid want around €90m.”
That’s not pocket change, but Arsenal were clearly considering it.
At the time, Arteta didn’t confirm any specific names, but he did give a pretty revealing quote when asked about summer targets:
“I won’t name any specific player but we have brought the club into a position that next season, you have to win a major trophy. Everybody believes that we are an elite team in this country and in Europe. Arsenal is there.
We have to add goals, creativity, and we have to add numbers, and that will be in different positions.”
It was pretty obvious. Rodrygo was exactly the type of player they were looking for fast, knows how to find the net, and has played in big games. And with Martinelli’s form dipping and a few injury concerns, bringing in another top left-sided winger actually made a lot of sense.
So What Happened? Why Arsenal Pulled Back
The short answer is: Arsenal’s priorities shifted.
Once it became clear they could get Madueke and Gyökeres, two players who solve attacking issues in different ways. The idea of spending £78 million on Rodrygo became less practical.
According to Spanish outlet Cadena SER, sources close to the club now believe the "road is closed" when it comes to Rodrygo. That doesn’t mean Arsenal don’t rate him anymore, it just means the squad is heading in a slightly different direction.
Gyökeres will likely play centrally, giving Arteta a different kind of striker to work with, while Madueke adds another dynamic wide option who’s still just 22. It’s about balance, not just star power.
And here’s the thing: Arsenal’s recruitment team has become very deliberate in how they spend money. This isn’t the Arsenal of old, panic-buying in August. Every move now is planned, calculated, and part of a bigger system. They don’t just want big names, they want players who fit the project.
Liverpool’s Opening
With Arsenal stepping back, Liverpool have quietly but very seriously stepped forward.
According to multiple sources in Spain and the UK, Liverpool have identified Rodrygo as their priority target. And this isn’t just about adding depth. This is about reshaping the attack now that Jürgen Klopp is gone and Arne Slot is in.
Slot wants energy, flexibility, and goal threat from wide areas. With Salah’s future uncertain, Jota now less central to the team, and Núñez still struggling for consistency, Rodrygo would make a lot of sense for Liverpool right now.
And Liverpool aren’t messing around. They’ve reportedly appointed Pini Zahavi, one of the most experienced and well-connected agents in the business, to lead negotiations.
Zahavi has been involved in some of the biggest transfers in Europe over the last two decades, and his involvement signals that Liverpool are ready to get serious.
Talks are expected to open with Real Madrid within the next week or two. The Spanish giants are asking for €90 million, and while that’s a big number, Liverpool believe the deal is doable especially if the player wants the move.
Why Rodrygo Might Be Ready for a New Chapter
Rodrygo has never made public comments about wanting to leave Madrid. He’s always said the right things. But the arrival of Kylian Mbappé, combined with the rapid rise of Jude Bellingham, Vinícius Jr., and Arda Güler, has pushed Rodrygo down the pecking order.
“He’s still been getting game time and has had some big nights in the Champions League, but he’s not really a guaranteed starter anymore. And for someone who’s 23 and just hitting his prime, that’s a tough situation to be in.”
Does he stay and fight for minutes in an increasingly stacked squad? Or does he make the jump now, while top clubs like Liverpool are still eager?
Former Brazil international Julio Baptista spoke about Rodrygo recently, saying:
“He’s a player who needs rhythm, who plays better when he feels important. Madrid doesn’t always give that. He might have to choose between being a part of something big or becoming the main figure elsewhere.”
Liverpool could offer him that stage. The No. 10 role, or even an inverted winger spot on the right, where he could cut inside and run at defenders, it suits his style.
What Happens Next?
As of mid-July, the momentum seems to be shifting toward Anfield. Real Madrid have not publicly said they want to sell Rodrygo, but they also haven’t shut the door on a deal. If the right offer comes in and the player gives a green light, Madrid will likely consider it.
It’s also worth remembering that Madrid are always planning ahead. If they think they can cash in on Rodrygo now and reinvest in other areas, they’ll do it. That’s just how Madrid do things. They’ve always been good at knowing when to cash in and move forward. It’s part of why they’ve stayed winning for so long.
And for Liverpool, this is a fresh start with Arne Slot in charge. He’s going to shake things up, bring in players that match his ideas. Going all in for Rodrygo would show they mean business.
Wanderlustsport Verdict
If you support Arsenal, you might feel kind of conflicted. Rodrygo felt like someone who could’ve taken the team to a top notch. But at the same time, the Gunners are building something smart, not just chasing shiny objects.
And if you're a Liverpool fan? This might be the summer your club pulls off something big. Rodrygo’s got the quality, the hunger, and the pedigree to light up the Premier League. And if Liverpool really are “doing everything in their power” to get him, don’t bet against them pulling it off.
What do you think, would Rodrygo shine brighter in red or white? Drop your thoughts in the comments below or share with your fellow fans.