Arsenal’s pursuit of Real Madrid forward Rodrygo has become increasingly complicated due to high transfer fee demands and competition from top European clubs. Real Madrid currently values Rodrygo at around €90-100 million (£78-86.5m, $104-116m), which Arsenal considers too expensive given his recent form and performances last season. Former executive Keith Wyness suggested that a deal would likely only happen at the end of the transfer window if Madrid lowers their asking price, but he remains doubtful about the transfer materializing as Arsenal are exploring other options in the meantime.

Real Madrid plan to hold direct talks with Rodrygo in the coming days, allowing the 24-year-old Brazilian to decide his future. Although Rodrygo has a strong affinity for Madrid, frequent benchings—such as five consecutive appearances on the bench during the Club World Cup—signal a shift in his status under coach Xabi Alonso, suggesting his exit might be on the horizon. Arsenal will likely need to offload players like Leandro Trossard or Gabriel Martinelli to create space for Rodrygo or fellow target Eberechi Eze. Trossard faces interest from Bayern Munich and Fenerbahce, while Martinelli has drawn attention from Saudi clubs.

Rodrygo’s transfer has attracted interest from multiple top European clubs beyond Arsenal, including Chelsea, Manchester City, Paris Saint-Germain, and notably Bayern Munich. The Bavarian team has been linked with a potential €100 million bid, especially if Liverpool fails to sell Luis Díaz. Bayern is keen to improve their left wing options, given Kingsley Coman’s recent inconsistent performances.

Despite the challenges, Rodrygo reportedly views the Premier League as an exciting challenge and is open to a move, intensifying the competition among clubs. Real Madrid’s asking price remains a significant hurdle, with Arsenal and others reportedly considering an €80-90 million fee as the minimum to get negotiations seriously underway. If a deal goes through, it will likely occur late in the summer transfer window.

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