OFFICIAL NOW: Arsenal Hijacked Man United and Liverpool top transfer target as £110M South American superstar signs seven years deal with the Gunners

Arsenal have pulled off one of the most dramatic transfer coups of the summer, snatching Real Madrid forward Rodrygo Goes from the clutches of both Manchester United and Liverpool. The Gunners have confirmed the signing of the Brazilian attacker in a staggering £110 million deal, with the player penning a contract that will keep him at the Emirates Stadium for the next seven years.

Rodrygo’s move to North London is nothing short of a statement from Mikel Arteta’s side. For years, Arsenal have been criticized for failing to land world-class attacking talents in their prime. This time, they have not only secured one of South America’s most exciting forwards but also beaten two of their fiercest Premier League rivals to his signature. It’s a signing that sends a clear message: Arsenal intend to compete at the very top, both domestically and in Europe.

The 24-year-old has enjoyed a glittering spell at Real Madrid, winning multiple La Liga titles, two UEFA Champions League trophies, and a string of other major honours. Known for his explosive pace, sharp dribbling, and big-game temperament, Rodrygo had become a fan favourite at the Santiago Bernabéu. However, the arrival of Kylian Mbappé last summer shifted the pecking order in Madrid’s attack, forcing Rodrygo into a reduced role.

By the end of last season, his minutes had dwindled, and the writing was on the wall. New head coach Xabi Alonso appeared to favour different combinations in the forward line, and even during the Club World Cup campaign, Rodrygo found himself on the fringes. For a player of his quality and ambition, a move away became not just an option, but a necessity.

Liverpool and Manchester United had both identified Rodrygo as a priority signing. Liverpool saw him as the perfect replacement for Luis Díaz, who departed earlier in the window, while United were seeking to inject more creativity and firepower into Erik ten Hag’s attack. Yet, while both clubs held preliminary talks, Arsenal acted decisively, presenting a financial package and sporting project that immediately convinced the Brazilian.

Reports from Spain indicate that Real Madrid had initially valued Rodrygo at around £78 million, but Arsenal’s aggressive approach, coupled with add-ons and performance-related clauses, pushed the total potential deal to £110 million. This figure not only reflects the player’s talent but also the urgency with which Arsenal moved to secure his services before their rivals could react.

Arteta’s admiration for Rodrygo is no secret. The Arsenal boss has long been searching for a player who can operate effectively from the left wing but also switch seamlessly into central and right-sided roles. With Gabriel Jesus, Bukayo Saka, and Gabriel Martinelli already forming a potent frontline, Rodrygo’s versatility gives the Gunners a level of attacking depth rarely seen in recent years at the Emirates.

This signing also comes at a time when Arsenal are looking to build on last season’s progress. Having pushed Manchester City close in the Premier League title race, the club is now determined to go one step further. Rodrygo’s arrival could prove to be the missing piece in Arteta’s tactical puzzle, especially in matches where breaking down deep, compact defences has been a challenge.

For Rodrygo, the move represents both a new challenge and a chance to establish himself as a central figure in a club’s long-term project. At Real Madrid, competition for places was fierce, with Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior, and Jude Bellingham all vying for attacking roles. At Arsenal, while competition will still exist, he is expected to be a consistent starter and a pivotal part of the team’s Champions League campaign.

The signing is likely to have ripple effects across Europe’s transfer market. Liverpool and Manchester United will now have to turn their attention to alternative targets, while Real Madrid may look to reinvest part of the fee into defensive reinforcements — with reports suggesting William Saliba was among their top priorities before Arsenal closed the door on any potential sale.

With the Premier League season just around the corner, Arsenal fans are buzzing with excitement. The capture of Rodrygo is not just a big-name signing — it’s a statement of ambition. If the Brazilian adapts quickly to English football, he could be the catalyst for Arsenal’s first league title in two decades and a serious push for European glory.