With only a few days left until the start of the 2025/26 season, the future of Brazilian star Rodrygo Goes at Real Madrid remains uncertain. Despite his expressed desire to stay and work under new coach Xabi Alonso, recent reports indicate that he is no longer a first-choice option in the squad, fueling strong speculation about his departure this summer.
According to the Spanish newspaper Defensa Central, Alonso prefers to rely on Brahim Díaz on the attacking wing, as was clearly demonstrated in the recent 1-0 La Liga victory over Osasuna, where Díaz started and Rodrygo did not play a single minute.
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Rodrygo’s inconsistent performances last season, along with his absence from the starting lineup in several matches, most notably the Club World Cup where he played only 92 minutes across six games, have increased doubts about his future at Santiago Bernabéu. Several English clubs have entered a quiet race to sign the player, most notably Arsenal and Liverpool. Manchester City has also been linked with a move, contingent on successfully completing some sales, particularly the loan of Jack Grealish to Everton and the potential transfer of Savinho to Tottenham, who have submitted an offer of €70 million.
In a major surprise, recent English press reports revealed that Real Madrid’s management is willing to discuss a swap deal with Arsenal, in which Rodrygo would be transferred to the Gunners in exchange for William Saliba, one of the Premier League’s most prominent defenders.
Although these negotiations have not yet been officially confirmed, Saliba is among the names Real Madrid is monitoring to strengthen its backline alongside Liverpool’s Ibrahima Konate, as part of a long-term plan to secure the defense after the departure of some veteran players.
However, completing this deal does not seem easy, as Saliba’s contract with Arsenal runs until the summer of 2027 and the player has previously expressed his desire to remain with the London club. This makes Arsenal’s position firm regarding the idea of releasing one of its main defensive pillars, especially with the new season fast approaching.
