Manchester United are now firmly in the chase for Rodrygo Goes, joining the likes of Chelsea, Arsenal and Liverpool, Jorge C. Picon confirms that the 24‑year‑old Real Madrid winger is a long‑term target United have “really liked for some time”, and they are now serious, driven by their pressing need to transform a toothless attack into one capable of elite status.
Even with Matheus Cunha arriving and Bryan Mbeumo close to sealing a move, Manchester United still lack a world‑class out‑and‑out winger, and that’s a gap they must urgently address.
After a season where they barely broke into the top half of the Premier League, bolstering the attack is vital before they even begin to think about goals from a new No. 9, their most pressing need. Rodrygo represents that missing spark — a proven performer in Europe, capable of elevating the entire front line.
Rodrygo’s profile checks all the boxes. He offers elite movement off the ball, clinical finishing—14 goals and 11 assists in 52 matches last season—and experience on the biggest stages.
He would also represent a splashier signing than previous ex‑Real Madrid signings like Raphael Varane or Casemiro. At Old Trafford, the thought of adding a dynamic winger who could light up the wings alongside a new striker is tantalising.
Rodrygo has seen his role shift since Kylian Mbappé’s arrival, playing just 92 minutes across the Club World Cup, leading to increasing frustration. He has expressed a desire to play more, and Real Madrid cannot guarantee him that under Xabi Alonso. United officials sense opportunity.
They are aware Madrid may consider a sale of Rodrygo if the right offer arrives—especially one tied to clear playing assurances. Multiple reports suggest a valuation around €80 million for a player they have admired for years. This would be a risk, but one that could pay off handsomely.
United’s interest puts them in direct competition with Arsenal—who reportedly have an €80 million budget—as well as Chelsea and Liverpool, all monitoring Rodrygo.
Yet United believe they can offer something unique: the starring winger role, Champions League football, and the chance to front a full rebuild. If they can land Rodrygo, it would signal real intent, showing ambition to transform their attack profile immediately.
All this depends on United securing a top‑class No. 9 first. However, in a perfect transfer window they could land Rodrygo as their marquee winger and then move on to attack their bigger striker need—creating a front three worthy of European contention.
The clean‑up underway—moving on Antony, Sancho, and others—would create the room needed.
United are expected to open official discussions with Real Madrid once they finalise key departures to fund the move. Their proposition must be competitive—potentially €80 million or higher—yet structured to accommodate Madrid’s valuation and Rodrygo’s playing demands.
From this summer’s window until the season’s transfer deadlines, Old Trafford will be focused on making Rodrygo the most eye‑catching signing this summer, and it’s now beginning to look like a genuine possibility.
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