Liverpool Join Arsenal in High-Stakes Race for €100m Rodrygo

Real Madrid winger draws serious Premier League interest as Liverpool and Arsenal prepare transfer bids

It’s shaping up to be one of the most intriguing transfer sagas of the summer: Rodrygo Goes, a cornerstone of Real Madrid’s recent success, is attracting serious attention from the Premier League—more specifically, from two of its most ambitious giants. Arsenal may have made the early running, but now Liverpool have thrown their hat into the ring, and the battle lines are being drawn for a potential €100 million deal.

According to reports from Spain, Liverpool have made contact with Rodrygo’s representatives, signalling the beginning of what could become an intense tug-of-war with Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal. Both clubs are reshaping their squads with clear ambitions of dominating the domestic and European scenes, and adding a player of Rodrygo’s calibre would be a powerful statement.

Why Liverpool want Rodrygo

Alexander Isak Newcastle United Liverpool 2025

With Arne Slot now at the helm, Liverpool are entering a new era. The Dutchman, tasked with following in the footsteps of Jurgen Klopp, has made no secret of his desire to inject fresh attacking flair into his squad. While names like Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike have been floated in recent weeks, it’s Rodrygo who is fast becoming the club’s top target.

At just 23 years old, Rodrygo already boasts an enviable trophy cabinet and an impressive résumé. He’s played key roles in Real Madrid’s Champions League triumphs and La Liga campaigns, operating across the front line with intelligence and composure beyond his years. His pace, ball control, and decision-making in the final third make him a natural fit for Slot’s high-tempo, fluid attacking philosophy.

With questions hanging over the long-term future of Mohamed Salah—whose contract situation continues to raise eyebrows—Liverpool may view Rodrygo as both an insurance policy and a marquee addition to keep the attack evolving.

Arsenal’s long-standing interest

Liverpool FC v Crystal Palace FC – Arsenal

Arsenal, on the other hand, have been circling for some time. Mikel Arteta is believed to be a long-time admirer of Rodrygo and sees the Brazilian as the ideal upgrade for his forward line. While Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli offer dynamism and flair on the wings, Arsenal lack depth and versatility when it comes to high-end attacking options.

Rodrygo’s ability to play on either flank or even as a central forward gives Arteta exactly the kind of tactical flexibility he loves. The Gunners are gearing up for another title tilt after two seasons of falling just short, and adding a Champions League-proven attacker could be the difference-maker in what is expected to be an even tighter title race.

Yet, with Liverpool now entering the picture, Arsenal will need to act fast—and perhaps be willing to stretch their financial boundaries.

Real Madrid’s stance on Rodrygo

Here’s where things get even more complicated. Real Madrid, despite having just splashed out on Kylian Mbappé and with Endrick joining the senior ranks, are not in a hurry to sell Rodrygo. Carlo Ancelotti and the club’s hierarchy continue to value him as a vital part of their system, especially given his experience, work ethic, and ability to deliver in high-pressure moments.

However, Madrid are also realists. They know that the arrival of Mbappé, combined with the rapid rise of Jude Bellingham and the continued presence of Vinícius Jr., could push Rodrygo down the pecking order. For the right price—reportedly around €100 million—they would be willing to negotiate.

It’s a hefty fee, no doubt, but one that reflects both Rodrygo’s immense potential and the inflated nature of today’s transfer market.

Bayern and others lurking in the background

It’s not just a two-horse race, either. Bayern Munich have also been linked with Rodrygo, though at this stage, they are believed to be monitoring developments rather than actively pursuing a deal. That said, in the high-stakes poker of the transfer market, things can change in an instant.

Should either Arsenal or Liverpool falter in their negotiations—or if Madrid decide to encourage a bidding war—don’t be surprised if Bayern or even Paris Saint-Germain try to muscle in.

Rodrygo’s preference still unclear

One of the lingering unknowns in this saga is what Rodrygo himself wants. The Brazilian has made no public statements about leaving the Santiago Bernabéu, but there are rumours that he’s open to a new challenge, especially if he feels his role in Madrid is set to diminish.

Both Liverpool and Arsenal offer Champions League football, passionate fanbases, and ambitious managers with compelling visions. Yet their approaches differ: Liverpool promise a fresh start under Slot, while Arsenal offer the familiarity of a young, stable squad on the rise. Rodrygo will need to weigh his options carefully.

Time ticking before pre-season tours begin

For Liverpool, time is of the essence. The Reds are set to embark on their Asia pre-season tour later this month, with matches scheduled against AC Milan in Hong Kong and Yokohama F. Marinos in Japan. Ideally, they’d want any major new signing on board by then to integrate into Slot’s system.

Arsenal, meanwhile, are also ramping up preparations ahead of their own pre-season travels, and the clock is ticking on completing high-profile signings before the Premier League campaign kicks off.

If either club wants Rodrygo wearing their colours in August, they’ll need to move quickly—and decisively.