Arsenal are reportedly concerned that Real Madrid attacker Rodrygo might have reservations about joining the club during the summer transfer window.
Over the past few days, it has been claimed that the Gunners are seriously considering a blockbuster move for the Brazil international, who might be surplus to requirements at the Bernabeu this summer.
Arsenal may have to make Rodrygo either their most expensive or second most expensive signing of all time, but they have been told to pay over the odds for a player of his calibre if he becomes available.
The Gunners can offer the 24-year-old Champions League football and potentially regular starts on the left-hand side, where he would compete with Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard should the pair both stay.
However, according to The Athletic - via The Mirror - Arsenal chiefs are worried that the South American could ultimately turn his nose up to a move to the Emirates Stadium.
Arsenal 'worried' about possible Rodrygo transfer snub
© Imago
Furthermore, Arsenal arguably need a minimum of four signings this summer, as they will also pursue a new striker, number six and goalkeeper in addition to a left-winger.
As a result, there are further doubts internally as to whether they will be able to afford Rodrygo alongside all of their other targets, as the Real Madrid man is unlikely to cost lower than £80m.
The report adds that Rodrygo remains heavily admired by Emirates chiefs, but only time will tell if the Gunners make an official approach for the former Santos wonderkid this summer.
Rodrygo has made 267 appearances for Real Madrid since making the switch from Santos in 2019, registering 68 goals and 50 assists and winning 13 major trophies, including two Champions Leagues.
This season, the attacker has contributed 13 goals and 10 assists from 50 matches in all tournaments, but he has been frequently outshone by Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham.
What Rodrygo alternatives can Arsenal target?
© Imago
As Arsenal are already set to spend £51m on Martin Zubimendi, between £60m and £80m on either Benjamin Sesko or Viktor Gyokeres and potentially £30m on Joan Garcia, forking out at least £80m on Rodrygo as well may not be feasible.
Furthermore, the 24-year-old would command extortionate wages, as he is said to earn just over £200,000 a week at the Bernabeu, and Arsenal are not thought to be prepared to go that high.
Instead, Arsenal could capture Athletic Bilbao's Nico Williams for a modest £48m thanks to a release clause in his contract, while Atalanta BCs Ademola Lookman is said to be of interest too.
Newcastle United wide man Anthony Gordon and Borussia Dortmund's Jamie Gittens have been linked as well, but Chelsea will provide stiff competition for the latter's services.
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Ben Knapton
