Rodrygo’s potential transfer, the Brazilian forward from Real Madrid, is shaking up the transfer market in July 2025. Losing prominence at the Spanish club under Xabi Alonso’s management, the 24-year-old has caught the attention of Al-Nassr from Saudi Arabia, which, with Cristiano Ronaldo’s support, offered a “blank check” to sign him. The Saudi proposal aims to bolster the squad for the season, but Rodrygo signals a preference for the Premier League, with Arsenal emerging as the favorite. The negotiations are unfolding during the Club World Cup, where the Brazilian has had limited participation. The scenario reflects the player’s pursuit of prominence and the ambitions of clubs in different markets.
Rodrygo’s situation at Real Madrid has shifted dramatically in recent months. Despite playing 53 matches last season, scoring 14 goals, and providing 10 assists, the forward has not maintained the same spotlight under Xabi Alonso. Competition with Vinícius Júnior for the left wing, his preferred position, and the rise of youngsters like Arda Güler have contributed to his drop in the squad’s hierarchy.
- Factors influencing a potential departure:
- Reduced minutes in crucial matches, such as the Club World Cup.
- Preference to play on the left wing, occupied by Vinícius.
- Interest from top-tier clubs in Europe and Saudi Arabia.
The player’s future is expected to be decided in the coming weeks, with the transfer window heating up the international market.
🚨 BREAKING: Al Nassr want to sign Rodrygo. First contacts have been made. They want to have the dream attack of Cristiano Ronaldo and Rodrygo.
— Madrid Universal (@MadridUniversal) July 5, 2025
— @sachatavolieri pic.twitter.com/39ykNTAUqV
Saudi proposal gains momentum
Al-Nassr, the club featuring Cristiano Ronaldo as its main star, sees Rodrygo as a key piece to elevate the technical level of the team in the Saudi Pro League. The Saudi offer, described as a “blank check,” underscores the club’s ambition to attract global talents. Ronaldo, who recently renewed his contract with Al-Nassr until 2027, personally endorsed the Brazilian, with whom he shares bonds of friendship and admiration.
The Saudi club’s board considers the signing a priority for the mid-year transfer window. Beyond financial aspects, Al-Nassr promises perks, such as involvement in strategic decisions and a starring role in the sporting project. However, Rodrygo’s reluctance to leave European football poses a significant hurdle to sealing the deal.
Arsenal’s interest and the Premier League
While Al-Nassr bets on a financially attractive proposal, Arsenal emerges as the main competitor in the race for Rodrygo. The London club is willing to pay the 90 million euros demanded by Real Madrid, a figure reflecting the Brazilian’s market value. Mikel Arteta, Arsenal’s manager, believes Rodrygo’s playing style, marked by speed, dribbling, and finishing ability, perfectly fits the team’s tactical setup.
The Premier League is the attacker’s preferred destination, as he sees the English competition as an opportunity to keep his career at a high level. Other clubs, such as Manchester City and PSG, have also inquired about the player, but Arsenal leads the negotiations, waiting for the Club World Cup to conclude to formalize an offer. A potential move to London could mark a new chapter in Rodrygo’s career, who seeks to reclaim the prominence lost in Madrid.
Performance in the Club World Cup
Rodrygo’s participation in the Club World Cup, held in July 2025, mirrors his delicate situation at Real Madrid. Against Borussia Dortmund in the semifinal, the Brazilian remained on the bench, coming on only in the final minutes. Across five matches in the tournament, he logged just 101 minutes on the pitch, contributing one assist.
Xabi Alonso’s preference for other players, such as Arda Güler and Vinícius Júnior, highlights the shift in priorities within the Merengue squad. Rodrygo’s absence in decisive moments fuels rumors of his departure, while Real Madrid evaluates offers to balance finances and make room for new signings.
Rodrygo’s history at Real Madrid
Since joining Real Madrid in 2019 from Santos for 45 million euros, Rodrygo has earned his place with decisive performances. In his debut season, the young forward showcased versatility, playing both on the right wing and as a false 9. In 2023, he was a standout in the Champions League campaign, scoring crucial goals against Chelsea and Manchester City.
- Rodrygo’s numbers at Real Madrid (up to July 2025):
- Matches: 216 games.
- Goals: 54.
- Assists: 41.
- Titles: 2 Champions Leagues, 3 La Liga, among others.
Despite his successful track record, the lack of minutes in the current season and internal competition place the player at a crossroads, with a decision about his future looming.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s influence
Cristiano Ronaldo, at 40, remains a central figure at Al-Nassr, both on and off the pitch. With 93 goals in 105 matches for the Saudi club, the Portuguese star not only leads the attack but also shapes strategic decisions. His endorsement of Rodrygo reflects confidence in the Brazilian’s potential to complement the squad and boost the team’s competitiveness in the local league and Asian competitions.
Al-Nassr, which failed to qualify for the next Asian Champions League, is seeking high-profile reinforcements to reclaim prominence. Rodrygo’s potential arrival would be a significant step in that direction, but it hinges on the club’s ability to persuade the player to leave Europe.
What motivates Rodrygo to consider leaving
Rodrygo’s dissatisfaction at Real Madrid extends beyond limited playing time. The player has publicly expressed his desire to play on the left wing, where he believes he performs best. However, Vinícius Júnior’s presence, one of the squad’s key figures, makes this aspiration hard to fulfill.
Additionally, the rise of Arda Güler, a young Turkish midfielder who has earned Xabi Alonso’s trust, has further reduced Rodrygo’s role in the starting lineup. The combination of tactical factors, internal competition, and the desire to take on a central role at another club weighs heavily in the forward’s decision.
Real Madrid’s financial and strategic scenario
Real Madrid, known for its strategic financial management, is unlikely to obstruct Rodrygo’s departure, provided offers meet the club’s expectations. The 90 million euros demanded for the Brazilian are considered fair, given his age, talent, and experience in elite competitions.
A potential sale would also free up funds for new investments, such as the signing of Vitinha from PSG, who is on the club’s radar. However, the strained relationship between Real Madrid and PSG, due to Kylian Mbappé’s transfer, could complicate future negotiations.
Interest from other clubs
In addition to Arsenal and Al-Nassr, other European giants are monitoring Rodrygo’s situation. Manchester City, led by Pep Guardiola, sees the Brazilian as an option to bolster their attack, while PSG considers the player as part of their squad overhaul for the season.
- Clubs that have inquired about Rodrygo:
- Arsenal (England).
- Manchester City (England).
- PSG (France).
- Al-Nassr (Saudi Arabia).
However, the player’s preference for the Premier League gives Arsenal an edge, as the club has already engaged with the forward’s representatives.
Next steps in the transfer window
With the transfer window open until the end of August, the coming weeks will be crucial for Rodrygo’s future. The conclusion of the Club World Cup, scheduled for mid-July, is expected to accelerate negotiations, with Arsenal planning a formal offer.
Meanwhile, Al-Nassr vows not to give up, banking on Cristiano Ronaldo’s influence and a financial proposal that outbids European offers. The final decision rests with Rodrygo, who must balance sporting ambitions and financial considerations at a pivotal moment in his career.
