Arsenal remain interested in Rodrygo as Athletic move to keep Williams

Arsenal remain keen on signing Real Madrid winger Rodrygo as they prepare for a pivotal summer transfer window, according to Sky Sports.

The Gunners are scouting several targets to reinforce the left-wing position, with new sporting director Andrea Berta leading the recruitment process alongside manager Mikel Arteta.

Rodrygo is reportedly among the leading names on Arsenal’s shortlist, which also includes Athletic Club’s Nico Williams, Bayern Munich’s Leroy Sane, and Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers.

The Gunners are targeting proven talent to bolster their squad ahead of another title push next season.

Rodrygo is expected to hold talks with new Madrid manager Xabi Alonso this week. Despite having three years remaining on his current deal, the 24-year-old’s role remains uncertain.

Athletic Bilbao are determined to retain Williams and have opened talks with him over a new contract.

Club president Jon Uriarte emphasised the importance of the Spanish international to their plans in a recent interview.

Williams, who has a reported £50 million release clause, has long been admired by Arsenal and was the subject of interest earlier this year.

Arsenal have neglected their attack and must spend big

Fifty-nine clubs have outspent Arsenal on attacking players since 2020, according to Transfermarkt, a remarkable statistic given their ambitions.

Arsenal have spent just €80m on wingers and strikers, signing only six players in that timeframe, excluding the €75m signing of Kai Havertz.

The German counted as an attacking midfielder at the time but has played more games up front for Arsenal since.

Despite building the Premier League’s best defence, the lack of attacking investment remains a glaring weakness. That should change this summer.

Bukayo Saka needs marquee attacking partners to take the burden off his shoulders.

The Gunners must be ready to cough up the funds as they bid to end their long wait for a Premier League title.