Arsenal ‘finally given Rodyrgo transfer price’ as Real Madrid back-track on deal stance | Football | Sport

Arsenal have finally learnt Real Madrid’s valuation for Brazilian star Rodrygo. The forward has been linked with a move to North London this summer, but the La Liga giants have previously been defiant in refusing to name a price for the 24-year-old.

Rodrygo has been integral to Real’s success since joining from Santos in 2019, playing in two Champions League final wins. He’s scored 68 times in 268 club appearances, but reportedly grew frustrated in Carlo Ancelotti’s final season. Despite remaining a regular starter under his new national coach in the 2024/25 campaign, he was frequently deployed on the left wing.

Rodrygo is said to favour the right-hand side, a role occupied at Real by Vinicius Junior. Speculation over his future mounted further last week when he was axed by new manager Xabi Alonso for the 3-1 win over Pachuca in the Club World Cup.

According to the Spanish radio station Cadena SER, Real have now back-tracked on their refusal to negotiate. They’ve put a £76million (€90m) fee on the star, a price likely to be within Arsenal’s reach.

Talks between the two clubs are expected to ramp up next month when Real return from America. Alonso is said to be keen to use any funds recuperated from a deal to strengthen his squad elsewhere for his maiden season in charge.

While signing the Brazilian wouldn’t signify the addition of a prolific striker that many Arsenal fans are craving, it would serve as a major signal of intent from Mikel Arteta. The Spaniard is under pressure to deliver the Premier League title in 2025/26 after three consecutive third-place finishes.