Arsenal told to complete 'realistic' Real Madrid transfer and ignore 'dream' move in January
Former Arsenal star Emmanuel Petit has encouraged the Gunners to look to La Liga in a bid to strengthen their squad as Mikel Arteta's tram chase Premier League glory
by Tom Victor · The MirrorEmmanuel Petit has told his former club Arsenal to avoid reviving their interest in summer target Nico Williams and instead prioritise Real Madrid star Rodrygo.
Arsenal were among a number of clubs sniffing around Spain winger Williams over the summer, and Petit admits the Athletic Club star would be a dream signing. However, Williams has so far shown no indication he wants to leave Bilbao for the Premier League.
The Gunners made a deadline day move for Raheem Sterling, but could be back in the market for a wide forward either in January or over the summer. Rodrygo could yet be that man, with questions over the Brazilian's future at Real Madrid.
Carlo Ancelotti has added Kylian Mbappe and Endrick to his ranks, while Vinicius Junior, Jude Bellingham and Brahim Diaz all contributing to the Madrid attack. That could mean Rodrygo finds himself as the odd man out, and Petit wants Arsenal to test the waters.
"If they cannot sign Williams, Arsenal need to sign Rodrygo from Real Madrid as he’s so underrated and gets overshadowed by Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Jr," Petit told Genting Casino. "He reminds me a bit of Sylvain Wiltord when I was at Arsenal. I really think he would be a star at the Emirates and be an amazing player who can play across all three positions across the front line.
"I know he was asked about Mbappe and Vinicius Jr the other day and he responded: 'I am Rodrygo, look at what I did last season?' This guy is so underrated and perhaps he feels like is being overshadowed at Real Madrid?
"In any case, he could be an absolute superstar for Arsenal and I rate him very much. He scores goals, gives assists and gives great energy on the pitch."
Would Rodrygo be a good signing for Arsenal? Have your say in the comments section
Rodrygo has featured in all 10 of Real Madrid's La Liga games this season, but has only completed the full 90 minutes once. He began each of the last two games on the bench, making late cameos in victories at home to Villarreal and away at Celta Vigo.
Next up for Los Blancos is a Champions League meeting with Borussia Dortmund, a repeat of the 2024 final. Speaking to media ahead of the game, Ancelotti was asked about Bellingham's changing role and said he was happy with the England star despite him providing less of a goal threat.
“He just changed his position the other day and played on the right to look for more space to get into the second line," the Italian said. "We're going to continue along those lines because the left is busier this year because Mbappé likes to play there and combine with Vini Jr. We think with Bellingham and with Rodrygo we can be as effective as we are on the left wing."
Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read ourPrivacy Notice.
Sky Sports deal
Sky Sports launches 'lowest price' Premier League package
£43 (was £52)
Sky has slashed the price of its Sky Sports, Sky Stream, Sky TV and Netflix bundle in an unbeatable new deal that saves £216 and includes 1,400 live matches across the Premier League, EFL and more.
With Ultra HD included at no extra cost, football fans can enjoy the 2024/25 season with crystal clear picture quality.