Arsenal Could Make a Major Statement with Rodrygo Signing Despite Striker Focus
Arsenal could send a strong message in the transfer market by signing Rodrygo from Real Madrid, even though their main priority remains securing a top-class striker.
On Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, former England goalkeeper Paul Robinson said a front three of Rodrygo, Bukayo Saka, and a new centre-forward could be a game-changer for the Gunners.
Injuries to Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz have left Arsenal short up front, with Mikel Arteta even turning to midfielder Mikel Merino to fill in. The club is expected to pursue a world-class number nine this summer, with Benjamin Sesko among the rumored targets.
Rodrygo has faced speculation about his Real Madrid future throughout the season. Both Manchester City and Liverpool previously showed interest, but no move materialized.
Robinson believes that while Saka’s spot on the right wing is locked in, Rodrygo would be an upgrade over Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard on the left. He emphasized, however, that signing a central striker remains Arsenal’s top need.
“If Arsenal were to bring in both Rodrygo and a top striker, it would be a real statement,” Robinson said. “Rodrygo and Saka as wide players behind a proper number nine would be a fantastic combination.”
He also noted that neither Martinelli nor Trossard have matched Saka’s consistency this season, making a left-sided reinforcement a valid option.
With Raheem Sterling’s loan from Chelsea not set to continue, Arsenal may have a vacancy on the left wing—potentially opening the door for Rodrygo.
Despite other names being linked, like Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo, Arsenal’s focus remains on finding a reliable striker to lead the line as they aim to finally clinch the Premier League title under Mikel Arteta. Both Sesko and Rodrygo would be statement signings, but Arsenal can’t afford to overlook the need for a prolific goalscorer.