Arsenal’s long-standing interest in Real Madrid forward Rodrygo Goes remains intact, but there will be no January 2027 transfer, with any potential move pushed to the summer window at the earliest, according to Fabrizio Romano.
Rodrygo is continuing his rehabilitation from the serious knee injury he suffered in March 2026, with Real Madrid's medical staff now believing he could return earlier than the original February 2027 timeline.
His comeback could come as early as December 2026 or January 2027. Romano's update rules out a January 2027 move for Rodrygo while confirming that Arsenal remain interested in the Real Madrid forward.
The Gunners are still in contact with the player's camp as they monitor his situation ahead of the summer window.
What Fabrizio Romano Has Confirmed on Rodrygo and Arsenal
Romano addressed the story on his YouTube channel on September 16, 2026, saying Rodrygo “has always been mentioned as a transfer target for Arsenal.” His comments indicate that the interest is longstanding rather than a new development.
He added that Arsenal wanted the Brazilian in summer 2025, but a move was not possible at the time. Manchester City were previously seen as the more realistic suitor, depending on other squad moves that ultimately did not happen.
“At the moment about Arsenal, I cannot say anything else,” Romano said before emphasizing: “Obviously they like the player, but now is not time for movements because in January nothing will happen. Rodrygo will stay. In the summer, it’s way too early to predict anything.”
The transfer insider also spoke about Rodrygo’s relationship with Real Madrid, saying the forward “is really grateful to Real Madrid for how they are helping him, trusting him, and believing in him despite the difficult moment in terms of his injury.”
How Rodrygo’s Injury Timeline Affects Transfer Plans
Rodrygo suffered a torn ACL in March 2026, ruling him out for the rest of the 2025–26 campaign and the opening months of the current season. The injury also ended any possibility of a summer 2026 transfer.
The original return target was February 2027, but Real Madrid’s internal feeling has shifted, with Romano reporting:
“There is a feeling he can be ahead of schedule… original indication of February… Now the feeling at Real Madrid is that by the end of 2026, let’s say December, maybe January, he could already be available.”
The club’s priority remains Rodrygo’s full recovery. Even if he returns to team training in December or January, he could need several more weeks to regain match fitness, making a winter transfer unlikely.
Rodrygo is under contract with Real Madrid until 2028, and there has been no public indication of extension talks or discussions over a release clause. Any club that wants to sign him in 2027 would therefore have to negotiate with Real Madrid over the terms of a deal.
What Arsenal’s Interest Means for 2027 Transfer Plans
Arsenal’s continued monitoring of Rodrygo follows their unsuccessful attempt to sign Vinicius Junior earlier in 2026. Rodrygo has been identified as a left-sided attacking option for Mikel Arteta’s forward line.
Multiple outlets have reported that Arsenal remain in contact with Rodrygo’s entourage and could consider a move for the winger in 2027.
However, Romano said Arsenal “like the player”, indicating that their interest has not yet developed into formal talks. Any move would likely involve a significant fee.
Arsenal would also have to negotiate directly with Real Madrid if they decide to pursue the forward in 2027.