Arsenal are set to open talks with Real Madrid over the signing of Rodrygo after the FIFA Club World Cup.
The Gunners view Rodrygo as their top target to strengthen a key position and will begin negotiations following the conclusion of Real Madrid’s campaign in the United States.
The Spanish side take on Borussia Dortmund in the quarter-finals this weekend.
Rodrygo has totalled just 88 minutes across Real Madrid’s four games at the tournament and remains unsettled in the Spanish capital. Xabi Alonso’s move to a 3-5-2 system in recent games has left the Brazilian without a clear role.
Journalist Ben Jacobs has reported that Arsenal are ‘yet to learn’ of Rodrygo’s interest in a potential move but view the 24-year-old as their top target. Real Madrid are understood to be prepared to sanction a sale for a fee of around €90m (£77.2m).
Arsenal also hold an interest in Chelsea winger Noni Madueke, who is valued in excess of £45m at Stamford Bridge.
The club’s pursuit of Crystal Palace midfielder Eberechi Eze is understood to be inter-dependent of deals for Rodrygo or Madueke. Eze is wanted to add creativity in a central role, though an ability to operate from the left boosts his appeal.
The England international has a £68m release clause at Palace and Arsenal are informed on the conditions of the deal. That fee can be paid in a series of instalments.
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