Real Madrid are reportedly prepared to make a significant €120 million bid for Arsenal talisman Bukayo Saka amid growing concerns that either Vinicius Jr or Rodrygo, or potentially both, could depart the Santiago Bernabéu, with the Premier League cited as a possible destination.
According to a report from DefensaCentral, the Spanish giants are reeling from their comprehensive 5-1 aggregate defeat to Arsenal in the Champions League quarterfinals. This humbling loss is reportedly prompting a potential overhaul, which could extend beyond the expected departure of manager Carlo Ancelotti, with Bayer Leverkusen’s Xabi Alonso heavily tipped to take over.
The shake-up could also involve Real Madrid’s star-studded forward line. While new arrival Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham are considered secure, wingers Vinicius Jr and Rodrygo are facing increased scrutiny.
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The report suggests that Vinicius Jr’s contract extension, which expires in the summer of 2027, has hit a stumbling block due to “salary issues.” The Brazilian international is reportedly aware of the lucrative offers he could receive from Saudi Arabia, having previously rejected a staggering €1 billion deal. With Mohamed Salah seemingly committed to Liverpool, Vinicius is now reportedly the Saudi Pro League’s primary transfer target. DefensaCentral also indicates that Vinicius has opportunities to move to the Premier League.
Meanwhile, his compatriot Rodrygo is also attracting interest, with Liverpool and Manchester City reportedly keen on his services. Despite the player’s stated desire to stay at Real Madrid, the report suggests he is aware that the arrival of Mbappe and the emergence of Endrick could diminish his prominence in the team.
In the event that Real Madrid decide to sanction the surprise sale of either Vinicius Jr or Rodrygo, DefensaCentral claims that Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka has been identified as the primary target to fill the void. The England international’s impressive performances against Real Madrid in the Champions League are said to have particularly caught the eye of the Spanish club’s hierarchy.
While Arsenal would undoubtedly be reluctant to lose such a key player, a €120 million offer from Real Madrid could present a difficult decision for the Gunners. The potential move highlights Saka’s growing stature in European football and the lengths Real Madrid might go to reshape their attacking options following their disappointing Champions League exit.
