Arsenal Have Already Made Their Move for £84m Rodrygo – While Chelsea Are Still Watching

Arsenal are playing chess while Chelsea are playing checkers in the race for Rodrygo’s signature.

The Gunners have already established informal contact with Real Madrid’s 24-year-old Brazilian sensation, positioning themselves perfectly for an £84million summer swoop. Meanwhile, their London rivals are still sat on the sidelines, watching and waiting.

It’s a tactical masterstroke from Mikel Arteta, who reportedly sees Rodrygo as the missing piece in his title puzzle.

The Alonso Factor Changes Everything

Here’s where it gets interesting. Carlo Ancelotti’s shock departure to become Brazil’s national team coach has thrown Rodrygo’s Madrid future into complete uncertainty. New boss Xabi Alonso hasn’t even spoken to the winger yet – those crucial talks are still pending.

According to Madrid-based Diario AS, Alonso and Rodrygo will have the final say on whether the Brazilian stays or goes. That conversation could determine the biggest transfer saga of the summer.

Chelsea’s £84m Gamble

The Blues aren’t out of this race yet. Sources suggest they view Rodrygo as the perfect triple threat: young, experienced, and still developing. At 24, he ticks every box on Chelsea’s wishlist.

But here’s their problem – they haven’t made contact yet. While Arsenal have been working behind the scenes, Chelsea are expected to make their move “soon.” In transfer terms, soon might be too late.

The £84million price tag would certainly make the statement Chelsea crave in the market. But statements mean nothing without action.

Why Madrid Might Cash In

Real Madrid find themselves in an unusual position. Rodrygo hasn’t requested a transfer, and the club hasn’t communicated their intentions to him. It’s transfer limbo at its finest.

With Alonso needing to reshape the squad in his image, selling Rodrygo could fund other targets. The Brazilian’s injury problems that ended his season early might also influence Madrid’s thinking.

Arsenal’s Secret Weapon

Arteta reportedly “counts on” Rodrygo joining his revolution at the Emirates. That level of manager backing often proves decisive in these mega-money moves.

The timing couldn’t be better for Arsenal either. With Champions League football secured and a genuine title challenge brewing, they can offer Rodrygo exactly what every top player wants – elite competition and the chance to win trophies.

Brazil Snub Adds Fuel to Fire

The plot thickens further with Rodrygo’s omission from Brazil’s upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Ecuador and Paraguay. Ancelotti cited fitness concerns following the winger’s injury-hit season.

No Gabriel Martinelli reunion on international duty means no awkward conversations about potential club teammates. Sometimes, football’s timing is perfect.

The Verdict

Arsenal’s early move gives them a crucial advantage in what promises to be one of summer’s biggest transfer battles. While Chelsea dither, the Gunners are doing deals.

At £84million, Rodrygo represents exactly the kind of statement signing that could elevate Arsenal from title challengers to champions. The question isn’t whether he’s worth it – it’s whether Madrid will let him go.