Arsenal are resuming their sporting planning with a primary objective: to find a top-class left winger to strengthen the team’s attacking creativity. With a demanding schedule ahead and the Champions League representing another major front, the Gunners’ hierarchy have set their sights on two internationally renowned figures: Rodrygo Goes and Rafael Leão, two players who could completely transform the structure of the London club’s attack.
The English club understands that Viktor Gyökeres needs a wide partner who can reduce his workload and create more attacking opportunities.
While the Swede offers mobility and an tireless work rate, his adaptation to the pace of English football is still ongoing, and expectations surrounding the more than €75 million invested continue to dominate discussions at the Emirates.
The club’s aim is not to replace him, but to surround him with players capable of enhancing his performance and creating space in the final third. Arsenal have identified that the ideal player profile must possess pace, unpredictability, and the ability to link up with teammates.
This is why Rodrygo and Leão fit so well into Mikel Arteta’s plans, as he is looking for an attacker with technical quality, personality, and experience at the highest level. Both players meet these requirements, although each offers distinct qualities that appeal to the sporting director.
Rodrygo is going through an inconsistent spell at his club, but his talent is undeniable. At just 24 years of age, he has already demonstrated the ability to decide big matches, read space intelligently, and alternate positions across the attacking line. For Arsenal, his versatility is particularly valuable, as he can play on either flank and even occupy central positions if the system requires it.
The transfer would not be easy, as his contract is long-term and his club are not considering a mid-season sale, but Arsenal are prepared to wait for the right moment to launch a serious bid.
Rafael Leão offers a completely different approach. His game combines physical power with an almost natural ability to break defensive lines through his dribbling. At 26, he is already an attacking force in Italy and one of the most dangerous wingers on the continent. For Arsenal, his arrival would mean an injection of aggression on the left flank and a constant threat in one-on-one situations.
Leão has six goals and one assist this season, solid numbers in a context where his team have struggled for consistency.
His contract also runs until 2028, which would require Arsenal to make a significant investment should they decide to make him a key part of their project.
