Journalist – Arsenal and Liverpool in stand-off over Rodrygo’s salary | OneFootball

Rodrygo’s Premier League Wage Expectations Create Standoff

Liverpool and Arsenal are both monitoring developments around Real Madrid winger Rodrygo, but his financial demands are emerging as a significant obstacle. The Brazilian international, 24, is understood to be seeking a salary in the region of £350,000 per week — a figure previously communicated to Manchester City during preliminary discussions.

Such terms would place him among the highest earners in the Premier League and are comparable to the wages Manchester City’s former midfield talisman De Bruyne commanded prior to his move to Napoli earlier this summer. Both Liverpool and Arsenal have been made aware that any formal approach would need to meet these conditions, potentially stretching their wage structures to unprecedented levels.

Transfer Fee Adds Another Layer of Complexity

Real Madrid’s valuation further complicates negotiations. The Spanish champions are asking for a transfer fee in the region of £76 million, reflecting Rodrygo’s standing as one of their more marketable attacking talents. Bayern Munich are also keeping a close watch, while Tottenham Hotspur’s interest is likely to cool given both the salary and transfer fee involved.

While Liverpool and Arsenal have been linked for some time, sources suggest neither club has yet opened advanced talks due to the dual challenge of meeting both the fee and wages. Clubs across Europe recognise Rodrygo’s quality and versatility, but there is a growing sense that a compromise will be required before any serious negotiations can progress.

City Maintain a Watching Brief

Manchester City’s early admiration for Rodrygo has been tempered by their reluctance to match his wage expectations. Pep Guardiola’s side, who have targeted attacking reinforcements this summer, have opted to monitor developments rather than commit to what would be one of the largest financial packages in their recent transfer history.

The situation remains fluid, but industry insiders believe City will only re-enter the race if Rodrygo signals a willingness to adjust his demands. For now, they are content to observe, aware that market dynamics could shift as the window progresses.

Wage Flexibility Key to Securing Move

Rodrygo’s next step may hinge on how willing he is to reassess his financial expectations. With Real Madrid under no pressing need to sell, the player’s position leaves little room for leverage. Should Liverpool or Arsenal decide to move forward, they will need to weigh the impact on squad harmony and financial sustainability.

Bayern Munich’s continued interest offers an alternative route, but the German champions are also understood to be cautious about committing to such a high wage package. If Rodrygo’s priority is securing a Premier League move, sources believe a reduction in salary demands could be the decisive factor.