Arsenal’s summer business is heating up. Key decisions are unfolding about wingers, and player exits as Mikel Arteta and sporting director Andrea Berta look to reshape the squad.
Rodrygo: Arsenal’s Top Winger Target?
A Fresh Arsenal report names Rodrygo from Real Madrid as the Gunners number one winger target. The Brazilian is reportedly open to leaving Madrid this summer. That puts Arsenal in the mix for a big splash.
Rodrygo turned 24 in January and has grown frustrated with limited time under Xabi Alonso. New arrivals at Madrid like Mbappe and Endrick could further limit his minutes. Arsenal are watching closely, though they may need to offload players to meet his wage demand.
Reiss Nelson: Nearing Fulham Switch
On the outgoing side, Reiss Nelson is in advanced talks with Fulham. The move could involve a permanent transfer or a loan with an obligation to buy. The Gunners favour the permanent sale option to raise funds and free up the wage bill.
Nelson spent last season on loan at Fulham. He has not featured for Arsenal since August 2023, so a transfer would offer him fresh playing time and help Arsenal raise transfer cash.
Squad Space Matters
Letting Nelson go would help Arsenal manage squad size and wages. It also opens salary space to pursue more expensive targets, such as Rodrygo. If Arsenal can move fringe players now, they’ll be better positioned for aggressive signings later.
Palace Pressure: The Eze Clause Deadline
Arsenal are under the spotlight with Eberechi Eze, too. Palace manager Oliver Glasner has complained about a lack of reinforcements at his club, noting Eze may leave if no deal is made soon. Eze’s £68m release clause reportedly expires on August 1, 2025. Arsenal must decide now whether to trigger it or face higher fees.
They want to negotiate a lower fee—possibly spread over time or include player swaps like Reiss Nelson—to reduce upfront cost.
Transfer Strategy of Arsenal: More In, More Out
The big picture is simple: Arsenal plan to bring in key attacking talent but need to offload fringe players to balance the books. Clearance through sales like Nelson and possibly others will free up room to sign Eze, Rodrygo, and potentially other creatives.
So far this summer, Arsenal have already spent nearly £195m on players like Viktor Gyokeres, Martin Zubimendi, Noni Madueke, Kepa Arrizabalaga, Christian Norgaard, and Cristhian Mosquera.
What to Watch now for Arsenal
There are a few key things Arsenal fans should keep an eye on in the coming days. First, will the club trigger Eberechi Eze’s £68 million release clause before it expires? That deadline could decide whether the deal goes through or not.
Then there’s Rodrygo—can the Gunners afford his wages without overcrowding the squad?. Reiss Nelson’s move to Fulham is also near but the last details are yet to be finalized. Finally, who else will be shipped out to accommodate new signings? These choices can determine Arsenal’s season before a single ball has even been kicked.
Why This Matters
Balance is key. Arsenal want fresh, exciting players to boost creativity and goal threat. But they must also reshuffle the roster responsibly. Strong departures create space for incoming talent and reduce wage pressure. The Eze and Rodrygo targets offer pace, flair, and Premier League pedigree—if Arsenal can get the structure right.
Author’s Note
The Gunners are juggling a mix of big-name targets like Rodrygo and Eze, while negotiating exits such as Nelson to make way. The focus is clear: upgrade attack, refresh the squad, and control finances. As the transfer window advances, these decisions will shape how competitive Arsenal can be next season.
As featured on GoonerNews.com
