Andrea Berta’s New Plan to Sign Rodrygo: Arsenal Pushing Ahead Amid Transfer Talks
Arsenal are reportedly intensifying efforts to sign Brazilian winger Rodrygo Goes from Real Madrid, with sporting director Andrea Berta now devising a new plan centered around a loan deal. With transfer negotiations heating up and competition from other European clubs like Manchester City and Bayern Munich, Arsenal are trying to gain a strategic edge.
Rather than diving straight into a permanent transfer, Berta is looking to repeat the model used for Martin Ødegaard, who first joined Arsenal on loan from Real Madrid before eventually signing permanently. The idea is to bring Rodrygo in temporarily, giving the club flexibility both financially and tactically while avoiding the immediate burden of a massive transfer fee. Rodrygo’s current valuation is believed to be in the region of £70–£80 million, and his weekly wages reportedly exceed £200,000—making a straight cash deal challenging under Financial Fair Play rules.
Rodrygo, despite his big-game pedigree and Champions League experience, finds himself increasingly on the periphery at Real Madrid. The arrival of Kylian Mbappé has pushed him further down the pecking order, with Vinícius Jr., Jude Bellingham, and even Arda Güler potentially ahead of him in the attacking hierarchy under new manager Xabi Alonso. Sources close to the club suggest both Real Madrid and Rodrygo are open to a move, especially if regular playing time can’t be guaranteed this season.
Arsenal, meanwhile, are looking to reinforce their attacking depth. With Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli as first-choice wide players, the Gunners lack elite-level rotation options, especially with the departure of fringe players expected. Leandro Trossard, Reiss Nelson, Fabio Vieira, and possibly Oleksandr Zinchenko are among those who could be offloaded to create space and balance the books.
The Gunners are also emboldened by their good relationship with Real Madrid. Their previous successful dealings—most notably for Ødegaard—have established trust between the two clubs. That history may prove crucial in brokering a loan-to-buy deal, which could include an optional or even mandatory buy clause based on appearances or team achievements.
Over the past week, reports confirm that fresh talks have been held between Arsenal, Real Madrid, and Rodrygo’s representatives. Sources indicate that Arsenal are currently seen as frontrunners, with Andrea Berta personally involved in discussions. Rodrygo himself is believed to be open to a Premier League move, though no final decision has been made.
The urgency for Arsenal is increasing, as other top clubs are monitoring the situation. Manchester City, in particular, have shown previous interest, and Real Madrid will not hesitate to entertain bids from other clubs if Arsenal fail to move swiftly.
In summary, Andrea Berta’s loan-based approach could prove decisive in Arsenal’s pursuit of Rodrygo. With squad reshuffling underway and financial pragmatism at the forefront, Arsenal are positioning themselves for another high-profile acquisition—one that could elevate their attacking threat in the Premier League and Champions League.