Rodrygo is set to leave Real Madrid on loan, with Arsenal emerging as a potential suitor. The Brazilian forward has fallen down the pecking order under new boss Xabi Alonso.
What happened?
Rodrygo featured from the start just once during the team's Club World Cup campaign, and does not appear to be a primary option for Alonso, who has Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Jr, and Jude Bellingham at his disposal.
The La Liga giants are open to an exit for the forward, but have not been proactive in finding a new club for him. Rodrygo is working with several intermediaries in search of alternatives, with no formal negotiations underway.
Why it matters for Rodrygo
A move to Arsenal could be a viable option for Rodrygo, who has been linked with Liverpool and Tottenham. The Gunners are open to a loan move, but only if a temporary option is available.
Mikel Arteta's side signed Noni Madueke this summer, and Eberechi Eze appeared to emerge as a key target. However, a move for Crystal Palace ace Eze is perhaps not as likely as it once was, with Arsenal maybe eyeing a player more predominantly used in a wider position.
What comes next?
The Times report that Arsenal are still keeping tabs on Rodrygo's situation, but will only consider making a move if a temporary option is available. Real Madrid coach Alonso suggested no decision had been made on Rodrygo's future, despite the forward struggling to break into his team.
A loan move may not be what the Spanish side are looking for, however, with reports earlier in the summer claiming they never pushed Rodrygo towards the exit door and a transfer would only have been considered if an offer of £78million or more was received. Liverpool were noted to have turned their attention to Real Madrid's star after failing with their bid for Alexander Isak.
According to ESPN Brazil, Liverpool reached out to the 24-year-old's representatives ahead of making an official offer. Rodrygo is said to have agreed personal terms with the Premier League champions, and Les Merengues could drop their asking price.
The situation is ongoing, with Rodrygo's future at Real Madrid still uncertain. Arsenal, Liverpool, and Tottenham are all potential suitors, but a loan move to the Gunners could be a viable option for the Brazilian star.