Chelsea are expected to step up their interest and rival Arsenal in the race to sign Real Madrid star Rodrygo.
The Brazil international’s future in the Spanish capital has come under major doubt in recent weeks with reports in Spain claiming he has grown unhappy with his role at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Xabi Alonso, confirmed as new Los Blancos boss last week to replace Carlo Ancelotti, told reporters this week Rodrygo is a ‘spectacular’ player who he will be relying on next season.
AS report however the 24-year-old could still leave Madrid this summer with the player still awaiting talks with Alonso to discuss his role going forward.
The former Santos star could be available for £67million this summer with no shortage of interest in the Premier League, particularly in the capital where Arsenal and Chelsea are huge admirers.
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Arsenal have already made their first approach and would welcome him to the Emirates ‘with open arms’ this summer as part of their efforts to close the gap on Premier League champions Liverpool.
The Gunners have already wrapped up a deal to sign Martin Zubimendi with a striker also on their hitlist.
Another wide option is also being sought with the report suggesting there are also doubts over Gabriel Martinelli’s future in north London.
Chelsea’s summer plans were given a huge boost after they secured Champions League qualification on the final day of the Premier League season, going onto win the Europa Conference League against Real Betis on Wednesday night.
Unlike Arsenal, the Blues are yet to approach Rodrygo or Real Madrid but are expected to step up that interest imminently.
Enzo Maresca’s side have already won the race for one of the Premier League’s most sought-after talents in Liam Delap.
The Ipswich Town star is set to join the Blues having informed clubs including Manchester United, Newcastle United and Everton that he is set on a move to Chelsea.
Maresca is keen to bring in another wide option with suggestions the club will not take up their option to sign Jadon Sancho and Mykhailo Mudryk provisionally suspended after testing positive for a banned substance.
Borussia Dortmund star Jamie Gittens and Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams are two other options under consideration.