Arsenal step up Morgan Rogers chase, Declan Rice leads charm offensive | OneFootball

Arsenal have stepped up their pursuit of Aston Villa forward Morgan Rogers, according to the Daily Mail.

Declan Rice is playing a key role in trying to convince the England international that a move to the Emirates Stadium is the right next step in his career.

The Premier League champions have identified Rogers as one of their leading transfer targets as Mikel Arteta looks to strengthen his attacking options ahead of the new season.

The 23-year-old is admired for his ability to play across multiple positions on the front line, with Arsenal viewing his versatility as a major asset.

He bagged 14 goals and 12 assists in 55 appearances across all competitions last season and helped Villa clinch the Europa League title.

He is also a target for Chelsea, but they will struggle to convince him about a move to Stamford Bridge without Champions League football.

Rice has been speaking with Rogers during England duty, while fellow international teammates Bukayo Saka and Eberechi Eze are also part of the group hoping to sell the club to him.

Despite Arsenal’s confidence that they can sign the Villa star, a deal is expected to be difficult to complete.

Villa remain determined to keep Rogers and are protected by a long-term contract.

However, the Midlands club are under pressure to balance the books in line with the Premier League’s financial regulations.

Villa could consider offers in the region of £85 million, but they are also mindful of the inflated market for elite midfielders and attacking players.

Any transfer fee would also be impacted by Middlesbrough’s 20 percent sell-on clause, adding another layer of complexity to negotiations.

While Villa secured Champions League football, Rogers is believed to be open to hearing Arsenal’s proposal as they look to build on their Premier League-winning campaign.

Arteta is planning an ambitious summer rebuild, with Arsenal targeting four or five major additions before the transfer window closes.

Rogers remains among the club’s highest priorities, while Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez is also admired as Arsenal continue their search for a marquee centre-forward.

Whether Villa ultimately soften their stance remains to be seen, but Arsenal are making every effort behind the scenes to put themselves at the front of the queue.