Arsenal are reportedly preparing for a battle with Chelsea for Real Madrid winger Rodrygo, after “The Blues” have already made contact with the player’s agent.

Busy transfer schedules for Arsenal
Gunners look set to have a busy July in the transfer window, with midfielder Martin Zubimendi expected to be one of several key reinforcements.

Read: Ole Gunnar Solskjaer brings “home” Benfica star

According to reports, Sporting Lisbon striker Viktor Gyökeres is the London club’s main target to replace Kai Havertz, while striker Noni Madueke is likely to make the move from Chelsea in the near future.

Manager Mikel Arteta is also said to be keen to bring in a left-winger this summer, with Real Madrid’s Rodrygo heavily linked with the Emirates.

Chelsea in the game
But according to Spanish side OK Diario, not only have Arsenal made contact with the player’s agent – Chelsea have done similar in recent weeks and could be aiming to bring the Brazilian to Stamford Bridge.

Rodrygo’s situation at Real Madrid
Rodrygo scored just 13 goals and provided nine assists in 50 games for Real last season. He was often forced to play outside of his preferred left-winger role due to competition with Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior.

Where does he fit best?
For Arsenal, the 24-year-old would almost certainly get a regular place on the left wing, as Gabriel Martinelli has struggled for the past two seasons.

Read on English clubs: Ibrahima Konaté demands 100% increase

For Chelsea, the picture is different – they have just signed left winger Jamie Gittens who will compete for the place with Pedro Neto.

Rodrygo can also play as an attacking midfielder, but Cole Palmer often used the central role for Chelsea in the 2024/25 season and is unlikely to be scrapped.

If Rodrygo wants to play permanently on the left wing, Arsenal could be a better choice for the Brazilian than Chelsea.