Arsenal Pursues Rodrygo Transfer Amid Wage, Fee Challenges

Arsenal have prioritized signing Real Madrid winger Rodrygo Goes to strengthen their attacking options ahead of the 2025/26 season, with manager Mikel Arteta seeing him as a key addition to improve their wide forward positions. Despite Rodrygo's diminished role at Real Madrid following Kylian Mbappé's arrival and public indications from coach Xabi Alonso suggesting a potential transfer, Arsenal face significant challenges due to Rodrygo's high wage demands, reportedly around €12 million net annually, which would make him the club's highest-paid player. The transfer fee is expected to exceed £70 million, with Arsenal considering staggering payments and possible squad changes to accommodate the financial impact, including potential sales of current wingers Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard. Arsenal's wage structure and transfer policies have generally favored moderation, but the club may need to adjust this strategy to compete domestically and in Europe, especially as rivals like Liverpool strengthen aggressively. While talks with Rodrygo's representatives have taken place, Arsenal have yet to formally negotiate with Real Madrid, and the club's ability to finalize such a high-profile move remains uncertain.