Arsenal Making Moves For Another Top Rated La Liga Star

Arsenal are wasting no time in shaping their squad for the 2025/26 season, and their latest focus has turned to another standout talent from La Liga. After locking in a deal for Real Sociedad midfielder Martín Zubimendi, the Gunners have now set their sights on Real Madrid winger Rodrygo. This move could further elevate their attacking threat.

The Zubimendi transfer appears all but sealed. Renowned journalist David Ornstein has reported that the move is “done and signed,” despite speculation that Real Madrid might attempt a late intervention. Spanish outlet AS suggests Arsenal have not only met the midfielder’s €60 million release clause but gone above it with a €70 million (£59 million) offer, as a gesture of goodwill. With Zubimendi reportedly giving his approval, only a routine medical stands between him and a move to North London.

With midfield reinforcements nearly secured, attention has swiftly shifted to the wings. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has named Rodrygo as Arsenal’s “dream target” for the summer. While formal talks are yet to begin, the interest is strong. Rodrygo has played a vital role at the Bernabéu, but the growing competition from incoming stars like Kylian Mbappé and Endrick could open the door for an exit. If Arsenal make their intentions clear, the Brazilian might be tempted by a fresh challenge in the Premier League.

The Gunners were strongly interested in Nico Williams in the past few weeks but the Spaniard reportedly prefers a move to Bayern Munich.

Rodrygo’s profile fits perfectly with what Mikel Arteta is looking for – raw pace, flair, and an ability to shift the dynamic in the final third. Arsenal currently rely heavily on Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli out wide, and Rodrygo’s arrival would not only offer direct competition but also provide another potent option in big matches. Still just 24, he has room to develop further under Arteta’s guidance and could be a long-term star at the Emirates.

Meanwhile, Arsenal’s pursuit of a striker remains a parallel priority. The club has long admired RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko and Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyökeres, but Sesko now appears to be the main target. Personal terms are already agreed with Sesko, leaving just the transfer fee to finalize. Securing a proven finisher alongside an elite winger like Rodrygo could transform Arsenal’s front line into one of Europe’s most dangerous.

Rodrygo remains under contract with Real Madrid until 2028, and any move would require a significant financial package due to a reportedly massive release clause. But with the Zubimendi deal nearly complete, Arsenal now have room to concentrate both financially and strategically on landing another winger.

For Arsenal fans, this aggressive approach in the transfer market signals serious intent. Adding a composed midfield organizer in Zubimendi, a world-class winger in Rodrygo, and a reliable goal scorer like Sesko would address three major gaps in the current squad. It would leave Arteta with a more balanced, versatile team ready to compete on every front and could hopefully deliver the Gunners the Premier League title or European glory next season.

Arsenal Close to Signing Chelsea Goalkeeper Kepa – Spaniard wants to Compete for top spot

Arsenal is once again looking to sign a player from Chelsea, this time eyeing out-of-favour goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga as a potential back-up option for David Raya.

The Gunners are reportedly close to agreeing to a £5 million deal for the 30-year-old Spaniard who is willing to fight for the top spot at Arsenal. Kepa, who sent waves across Europe earlier in his Chelsea career, has since lost touch with the Blues. He spent last season on loan at Bournemouth and the previous season at Real Madrid. With Neto heading back to the Cherries after his loan spell at Arsenal, Kepa will return to Chelsea this summer.

Kepa originally joined Chelsea for £72 million from Athletic Bilbao seven years ago, but he is now set to leave for a much lower fee. At Arsenal, he would compete with David Raya for the number-one goalkeeper spot.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta sees an opportunity to bring the experienced shot-stopper to the Emirates Stadium. He believes the Spaniard’s fast reflexes and keen eye to save penalties make him a perfect backup for fellow countryman David Raya and a great addition to his team. If the move does happen, Kepa will join a long list of players who’ve made the switch from Chelsea to Arsenal, including Petr Cech, David Luiz, Jorginho, and Kai Havertz. While not many transitioning from the Bridge to the Emirates in recent times has made much of an impact, Kepa’s case will be different – Hopefully.

Marquinhos Makes Move To Cruzeiro Permanent 

Arsenal have confirmed that 22-year-old Brazilian forward Marquinhos has joined Cruzeiro on a permanent deal.

Marquinhos had been on loan at Cruzeiro since January 2025, with the club making an obligation to buy the forward once certain conditions were met. Those conditions were recently fulfilled, so Cruzeiro has made the move official.

Although he never broke into Mikel Arteta’s long-term plans at the Emirates, Marquinhos was well-liked around London Colney for his cheerful attitude. Arteta himself praised him in 2022, saying his smile and work ethic won everyone over. Marquinhos leaves after three years at Arsenal, and will now begin the next chapter of his career back in his homeland – Brazil.

Arsenal Pre-Season 2025: Fixtures, Venue & Time

Mikel Arteta’s side is preparing for another big season as Arsenal aims to win multiple trophies in 2025–26. The club is expected to strengthen the squad by signing a striker, a winger, and a holding midfielder this summer. A possible squad overhaul could be on the cards, with a focus on fixing key issues and making a fresh start.

The Gunners have always won themselves competitive pre-season tours that set center stage for a brilliant season. Enough outfield time for Mikel Arteta to select talents and trim the squad to his liking. This coming season, Arsenal will begin their pre-season with two friendly matches in Singapore. This would be their third visit there following similar tours in 2015 and 2018. They are set to face Italian side AC Milan and fellow Premier League giants Newcastle United, both at the National Stadium.

The Gunners will then travel to Hong Kong to play against Tottenham Hotspur at the newly built Kai Tak Stadium on 31 July. This will be their first visit to Hong Kong since 2012. After the match against Spurs, the team will return to London to prepare for the Premier League season, which kicks off on the weekend of Saturday, 16 August.

Arsenal Vs AC Milan (July 23, 2025; 7:30 pm SGT/12:30 pm BST, National Stadium Singapore)

Arsenal Vs Newcastle United (July 27, 2025; 7:30 pm SGT/12:30 pm BST, National Stadium Singapore)

Arsenal Vs Spurs (July 31, 2025; 7:30 pm SGT/12:30 pm BST, Kai Tak Sports Park, Hong Kong)

Although the 2025/26 Carabao Cup officially begins on the 11th of  August, Arsenal will enter the tournament in the third round because they are playing in the Champions League. They will also join the FA Cup in the third round as usual. The draw for the 2025/26 Champions League league phase will be held on Thursday, 28 August, when Arsenal will find out their eight group stage opponents.

GET AVAILABLE ARSENAL TICKETS FOR THE 2025/26 SEASON!

Secure fast-selling Arsenal tickets for the 2025/26 pre-season and new season and reserve a spot for yourself and loved ones at games you love all across the World next season.

Arsenal’s upcoming pre-season fixtures will be crucial as they prepare for an exciting 2025/26 season. After pushing hard in recent campaigns, Mikel Arteta’s side is aiming to take the next big step in winning major trophies in England and Europe come next season.

The Gunners will begin their pre-season in the  Singapore tour, facing AC Milan on 23 July and Newcastle United on 27 July 2025. They’ll then travel to Hong Kong to take on rivals Tottenham Hotspur on 31 July. These games will help the team build momentum, test new tactics, and integrate new signings ahead of the start of the new season.

With a strong squad and fresh ambitions, Arsenal is looking to challenge for the Premier League title, make an even deeper run in the Champions League, and compete strongly in all domestic competitions. The 2025/26 campaign is shaping up to be a big one. Make sure not to miss your chance to see Arsenal in action at top stadiums around the world – Get Arsenal tickets now and join in the action! #COYG