Rodrygo’s imminent return should put Arsenal back on red alert
Rodrygo is edging closer to a return from an ACL and meniscus injury, and with his expected comeback reported to be after Christmas, he will naturally find himself on the end of transfer interest in the January window.
The Brazilian has been absent since March, having picked up a significant issue that has kept him out of José Mourinho's plans so far this season. However, as he faces an imminent return, he will be eyeing up a fight for a place in the starting XI or a move away from the Bernabéu.
Arsenal have often been admirers of the winger, but have never made a serious approach, and the winter window could present a real chance to make a move. With the Gunners in desperate need of dangerous attackers, they should be back on red alert once Rodrygo has returned to action.
Rodrygo’s imminent return should put Arsenal back on red alert
As Mikel Arteta sanctioned the departures of Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard in the summer, many expected Arsenal to bring in two more high-profile forwards to replace their outgoing stars. However, only Christos Tzolis was signed, leaving the North Londoners short on options on the left flank.
The Greek winger started the season well, but suffered an injury that kept him out for a month of action, meaning Eberechi Eze had to fill on the wing. While he showed some glimpses of positivity, he failed to impress for the most part, owing to it not being his natural position.
As a result, the majority of fans feel the Gunners need to do business in the January window, and Rodrygo should be an option on their list, joining the likes of Eli Junior Kroupi and Antonio Nusa.
There will naturally be concerns surrounding a potential move for the Brazilian, given his injury record and the hefty price tag he will likely have, but there is no denying he is a player that could take Arsenal's attack to the next level.
Since joining Real Madrid in 2019, Rodrygo has scored 71 goals and provided 57 assists in 297 appearances, and has won three La Liga titles and two Champions Leagues, as well as a number of other trophies at domestic and continental level.
Arteta's frontline have not been the most threatening this season, with only 15 of their 31 goals across all competitions coming from their attackers, working out to 48.38% of their strikes. The Brazilian would add flair and goalscoring ability, as well as providing cover on both flanks.
It's unlikely Rodrygo would be available for transfer once he does return to action for Real Madrid, but Arsenal should be on red alert if the opportunity does arise.
