Arsenal face major stumbling block in bid to sign Rodrygo with Mikel Arteta turning focus to Real Madrid star after failing to land Nico Williams deal

Rodrygo has been tipped to move out of the Santiago Bernabeu this summer after an underwhelming 2024-25 campaign, where he saw his game time reduced due to fierce competition in the club's attack. The Gunners, who are looking to sign a new forward, have been linked with a move for Rodrygo.

Diario AS reports that Arsenal, at one point, were keen on signing Nico Williams from Athletic Club, but with Barcelona now in pole position to secure a transfer for the winger, the English giants have reportedly rekindled their interest in Rodrygo. Other than the Selecao star, Mikel Arteta also has his eyes on RB Leipzig's Benjamin Sesko and Sporting CP's Viktor Gyokeres.

Los Blancos are likely to demand a fee in the region of €75 million (£64m/$86) for their star attacker, which Arsenal are ready to meet; however, the player's massive €12m per season salary demand could prove to be stumbling block for the North London club as they are not ready to spend that amount of money on player's wages.

Mikel Arteta's men will reassemble in late July and are then set to travel to Singapore and Hong Kong for their pre-season Asia tour.