Real Madrid allegedly accept extravagant trade proposal involving Rodrygo and Arsenal
In a potential game-changing move, Arsenal and Real Madrid are reportedly considering a swap deal that would see winger Rodrygo move to the Emirates Stadium in exchange for centre-back William Saliba.
The proposed deal, which has been gaining traction, would see Arsenal acquire Rodrygo, a dynamic attacker who could significantly boost their title challenge under Mikel Arteta. Real Madrid, on the other hand, would gain Saliba, a highly-rated defender they have long admired and value highly, reportedly over £100 million if bought outright [1][4][5].
For Arsenal, signing Rodrygo would be a major coup, but they would lose Saliba, a top defensive talent and one of their most prized assets. The Gunners appear keen to retain Saliba, showing intent to offer him a lucrative new contract to keep him as a core part of their long-term project, which complicates the swap [1][2].
Real Madrid may be motivated to part with Rodrygo as he seeks more regular playing time and may no longer fit their plans fully. Gaining Saliba would strengthen their defense with a player suited to their tactical style of playing out from the back and high pressing. Financially, the swap could help with squad balance, wage management, and compliance with UEFA financial fair play rules [1][3][4].
Arsenal reportedly prefer to take Rodrygo on loan for the 2025/26 season with an option or obligation to buy for around €90 million next summer. This structure may limit their immediate cash outlay. Saliba is close to securing a long-term contract that would make him one of Arsenal’s highest earners, which could reduce the likelihood of a straightforward swap unless terms are very favorable [2].
The market context adds competitive pressure, with Rodrygo attracting interest from multiple Premier League clubs, including Liverpool and Tottenham. Meanwhile, William Saliba is highly rated with Arsenal, prioritizing his retention. The negotiations are delicate, making the proposed deal a complex proposition [1][2][5].
It's worth noting that Arsenal have signed Noni Madueke as cover out wide and Viktor Gyokeres as a potential challenger to Kai Havertz. However, the club has moved on from pursuing a move for Rodrygo due to complications with his high earnings [6].
Arsenal and Real Madrid have had previous business dealings, with Martin Odegaard moving from Real Madrid to Arsenal, and Real Madrid showing interest in William Saliba [7]. Ebere Eze is a potential recruit for Arsenal this summer, adding to the intrigue surrounding their transfer market activities [8].
Swap deals in football are rare, but the proposed Rodrygo-Saliba swap could significantly reshape both squads if it happens. It offers Real Madrid defensive reinforcement fitting their style and financial flexibility, while Arsenal could gain a high-impact attacking player — but at the cost of a key defender they strongly wish to keep [1][3]. The situation remains fluid with contract talks and alternative transfer plans ongoing.
[1] Guardian [2] Daily Mail [3] ESPN [4] Transfermarkt [5] Sky Sports [6] The Athletic [7] BBC Sport [8] The Sun
Arsenal's potential acquisition of Rodrygo from Real Madrid in a swap deal could see European-leagues' premier-league clubs, such as Liverpool and Tottenham, miss out on an opportunity to bolster their attacking options. If the swap is successful, Real Madrid could fortify their defensive line with a player suited to their tactical style, while Arsenal may lose a highly-rated defender, William Saliba, who is reportedly close to signing a lucrative contract to secure his long-term future.
