Arsenal and Tottenham 'alerted' to Rodrygo transfer decision

Arsenal and Tottenham could find themselves in a transfer battle over Real Madrid's Rodrygo, with the Brazilian's situation in Spain having "not improved."

Both north London clubs were keen on signing Rodrygo last summer. The 24-year-old's position in the Madrid squad was in doubt with Xabi Alonso taking over from Carlo Ancelotti as manager.

The Spanish boss had publicly stated that Rodrygo was "still important," but his actions did not match his words. Rodrygo only played 92 minutes of football during the Club World Cup and has made just two starts in La Liga this season.

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The Brazilian international was once undroppable at Madrid but is now fighting for minutes on the field. With his future in Spain looking increasingly uncertain, Graeme Bailey believes he could soon be on the market.

He told GiveMeSport: "Rodrygo's situation has not improved this season. As we reported in the summer, Xabi Alonso always planned on making Arda Guler one of his key figures, and that has played out as expected.

"With teen starlet Franco Mastantuono also getting regular game time, there is little sign of how Rodrygo can find a route back into the lineup.

"I am told that Rodrygo is again considering his options, and one possibility is a switch to the Premier League, which could become a real option in January. He is certainly one to watch as we approach the New Year."

Mikel Arteta was keen to sign a clinical right-winger last summer to bring competition and rotation for Bukayo Saka. After missing out on Rodrygo, Arsenal splashed the cash on Noni Madueke, who, despite suffering an early injury, has made a positive impact on the squad.

Thomas Frank's side were also in contact to sign the Brazilian last summer. The Europa League champions missed out on a deal and went on to sign the likes of Xavi Simons and Mohammed Kudus instead.

If either of the north London clubs did choose to push for a move, they would have had to set aside a significant sum, with Real Madrid placing an £86.7million asking price on Rodrygo.