Liverpool are eyeing a sensational swoop for a ‘world-class’ winger, with the club preparing to battle Arsenal for the player’s signature.
Arne Slot has made strengthening the forward line a priority this summer, with Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez both attracting interest from clubs across Europe. While losing both players could spell disaster on paper, fresh reports suggest Liverpool may already have the perfect replacement lined up.
Belgian journalist Sacha Tavolieri has reported that Real Madrid’s Rodrygo has made the Premier League his preferred destination, despite firm interest from Saudi side Al Nassr. Tavolieri suggests Liverpool could accelerate their move for the 24-year-old if they lose Diaz who remains a target for Barcelona and Bayern Munich.
?? Luis Diaz’s situation could influence Liverpool’s approach in the market. While Rodrygo (as explained on Saturday) made Premier League his priority despite real Al Nassr approach, #LFC could move for the Brazilian & compete w/Arsenal if they end up losing Diaz — whom they are… pic.twitter.com/UD0y3QvVPD
— Sacha Tavolieri (@sachatavolieri) July 9, 2025
The Brazilian endured a mixed 2024–25 campaign with Real Madrid, struggling for consistent minutes under then manager Carlo Ancelotti. Despite tallying 14 goals and 11 assists in 54 appearances, he found himself on the sidelines repeatedly and was handed just 91 minutes in the FIFA Club World Cup, which could mark the end of his Madrid journey.
After being named as an unused substitute in Real’s 4-0 thrashing by PSG, Los Blancos manager Xabi Alonso addressed Rodrygo’s omission post-match.
“I didn’t play Rodrygo for a technical decision. We thought we would be better off with other players. It’s not about his future.”
But fresh reports now claim that Real are ready to off-load the Brazilian, who they value at a reported €90 million (£78 million) — a price tag that rules out most clubs except England’s elite and the Saudi Pro League. However, Rodrygo is said to prefer a Premier League move over a lucrative switch to the Middle East.
Liverpool’s interest is long-standing, with journalist Graeme Bailey also reporting that the club have been monitoring Rodrygo’s situation closely.
And in a twist that could open the door even further for the Reds, Arsenal, who have long considered the frontrunners, have now shifted their focus elsewhere. David Ornstein of The Athletic reports that the Gunners have entered advanced talks with Chelsea over a move for Noni Madueke and personal terms have already been agreed.
? Noni Madueke agrees personal terms with Arsenal as they consider approaching Chelsea for England int’l. #AFC have 23yo green light + strong relations with #CFC but no club-to-club talks yet. Firm option to bolster on both wings. W/ @SebSB@TheAthleticFChttps://t.co/d1ZrHPwyMD
— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) July 5, 2025
With both players occupying similar roles, Arsenal are unlikely to pursue both wingers, potentially giving Liverpool a free run at Rodrygo.
Liverpool and Madrid have recent history in the transfer market with Trent Alexander-Arnold joining Los Blancos in a surprise £10m deal earlier this summer. Rodrygo’s possible arrival at Liverpool would signal a major statement of intent as Slot looks to retain the Premier League title and push deeper in the Champions League after being knocked out by PSG on penalties in the Round of 16 last season.
Slot and sporting director Richard Hughes have already spent nearly £200 million this summer, with the marquee signing of Florian Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen, Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez.
Rodrygo’s age, output, and Champions League pedigree make him an ideal candidate to lead the next evolution of Liverpool’s attack, especially if Diaz or Nunez departs.
With Arsenal pivoting to Madueke, and Real Madrid unwilling to guarantee Rodrygo a starring role, Liverpool may now be in pole position to land one of Europe’s brightest attacking talents.
