Liverpool trump Arsenal after agreeing terms with 24-y/o ahead of possible £78m move…

In a transfer window filled with twists, power plays, and marquee names, the saga surrounding Real Madrid’s Rodrygo Goes has taken yet another dramatic turn. While Premier League giants Arsenal and Liverpool battle for the Brazilian star’s signature, a surprising new player has entered the fray — none other than Turkish powerhouse Fenerbahce, under the stewardship of José Mourinho.

According to reports from Turkey relayed via Diario AS, Mourinho has personally requested the signing of Rodrygo on a loan deal. It’s an audacious move — the kind we’ve come to expect from “The Special One.” Now at the helm of Fenerbahce, Mourinho is plotting a bold statement to kick off his Turkish adventure, and he clearly sees Rodrygo as the kind of flair and firepower that could elevate his side to European relevance.

But Mourinho’s request has been swiftly met with resistance. Real Madrid, despite the Brazilian’s recent dip in minutes under both Carlo Ancelotti and new boss Xabi Alonso, have made it clear: Rodrygo is not for rent. Los Blancos reportedly value him at a staggering €100 million and have no intention of entertaining any temporary departure.

Rodrygo, for his part, hasn’t pushed for an exit. The 24-year-old has remained professional, even amid uncertainty surrounding his role in Madrid’s evolving attack. However, the lack of consistent starts in recent months has inevitably stirred speculation — and clubs across Europe are circling like hawks.

Premier League giants are watching the situation closely. Liverpool, in particular, have taken the most decisive steps, having already agreed personal terms with Rodrygo, as reported earlier. The Reds view the Brazilian as a high-impact replacement for Luis Díaz, who is being courted by Bayern Munich. Manager Arne Slot has identified Rodrygo’s versatility and top-level experience as vital to his plans for the upcoming campaign.

Arsenal, too, have been tracking the Madrid winger, though their pursuit appears more cautious. Mikel Arteta is reportedly juggling squad depth concerns and financial limitations, particularly with Leandro Trossard’s future still unresolved. While the Gunners have not yet submitted an official offer, their interest remains intact.

Elsewhere in England, Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur have both been linked with the player. City’s interest hinges on squad rotation and long-term planning, especially with aging stars like Bernardo Silva and potential departures on the horizon. Spurs, meanwhile, view Rodrygo as a potential statement signing in their ongoing rebuild under Ange Postecoglou.

Even Al-Nassr from Saudi Arabia has been mentioned, as the Saudi Pro League continues to target European stars in their prime. However, no formal offers have been placed on the table, and Real Madrid’s valuation remains a significant obstacle for all suitors — especially clubs looking for a bargain or a loan.

From Madrid’s perspective, Rodrygo’s talent is still seen as a valuable asset, particularly for depth in a squad competing on multiple fronts. But with the emergence of younger stars and tactical shifts under Alonso, his future in the Spanish capital is less certain than ever.

What happens next could depend on who makes the first bold move. Liverpool are currently in pole position after their verbal agreement with the player, but they must finalize an official offer. Real Madrid’s €100 million asking price could be negotiated — possibly down to around £78 million — but a deal would likely also depend on Liverpool offloading a player like Darwin Núñez to balance their squad.

In the end, Rodrygo’s future remains one of the most captivating subplots of the summer. Whether he stays and fights for his place in Madrid, joins Mourinho’s daring Fenerbahce revolution, or makes a blockbuster move to the Premier League, one thing is certain: the world is watching.