Report: Transfer progress made as Liverpool target Real Madrid attacker | OneFootball

Liverpool Edge Closer to Rodrygo: Brazilian Star Open to Anfield Switch

With the summer transfer window heating up, Liverpool’s pursuit of Real Madrid’s Rodrygo has taken a crucial step forward. ESPN Brazil have confirmed the Reds are firmly in the race to sign the Brazilian forward, and signs now point to a genuine possibility that the 24-year-old could finally make his way to Merseyside.

Key Shift in Rodrygo’s Situation

Rodrygo’s situation at Real Madrid appears to be a changing one. Despite his talent and versatility, he’s found himself increasingly on the fringes under Xabi Alonso’s management. During the FIFA Club World Cup, Alonso favoured Vinicius Junior and Arda Güler, leaving Rodrygo struggling for minutes and relevance in his preferred left-wing role.

That context has created a window of opportunity. As the original ESPN Brazil report revealed, “Rodrygo is ‘happy’ with the interest and he’s ‘open’ to a move” to Liverpool. Spanish journalist Eduardo Burgos, speaking to Redmen TV, claimed the odds of a transfer are now “70 to 30” in favour of Rodrygo leaving Madrid.

Liverpool’s Smart Transfer Strategy

Credit must go to Liverpool’s recruitment team, led by Richard Hughes, who have moved swiftly and decisively in this window. The club has already secured deals for Milos Kerkez and Jeremie Frimpong, while Hugo Ekitike is another name on the verge of arrival. But Rodrygo would represent a marquee signing with proven pedigree in the Champions League and La Liga.

Importantly, this approach isn’t just about squad depth—it’s about succession planning. The likelihood of Luis Díaz leaving Anfield this summer is growing, with Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and several Saudi clubs showing interest.

Lessons from the Past

There’s a touch of irony to this saga too. Eight years ago, a then-teenage Rodrygo rejected a move to Liverpool. Now, with a potential spot opening up in the Reds’ front three, the Brazilian might be set to don the red shirt after all.

Timing and opportunity could be aligning. Rodrygo would bring pace, creativity, and goal threat—valuable assets in Arne Slot’s evolving attacking system.

Madrid Exit Depends on the Right Buyer

While convincing the player appears to be progressing well, striking a deal with Real Madrid remains a hurdle. However, the Spanish giants may be more open to negotiation if it helps fund further reinforcements or if Rodrygo pushes for an exit.

For Liverpool, everything seems to hinge on offloading Díaz, and fast. Should that happen, the Brazilian’s arrival may come to define their summer.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a Liverpool fan’s perspective, the Rodrygo links feel both exciting and well-timed. The Brazilian is a player of undoubted quality—technically sharp, intelligent in the final third, and experienced at the highest level despite his young age. There’s an energy and flair to his game that would fit well with the traditional Liverpool ethos, and his ability to operate on either flank or centrally could provide much-needed versatility.

Arne Slot will need attackers who can adapt to fluid systems, and Rodrygo ticks that box. If Díaz is to leave, most fans would agree that a direct replacement of this calibre softens the blow considerably. The idea that Rodrygo is “open” to the move also helps ease fears about players simply using Liverpool as leverage or stopgaps.

There will be questions, of course. Can he handle the physicality of the Premier League? Will he adjust to the tactical discipline required under Slot? And how much will Real Madrid demand for his services?

Yet, if Rodrygo is genuinely available and keen, this feels like the kind of transfer Liverpool should be making—one that aligns with both ambition and identity. Supporters will hope the club doesn’t waste this opportunity the second time around.