Arsenal are set to move on from their pursuit of Morgan Rogers after Chelsea hijacked their bid for the Aston Villa attacker. The Gunners had been linked with the 23-year-old for some time, but the Blues shocked their London rivals by securing a £117 million deal. Rogers will sign a six-year contract at Stamford Bridge, becoming Chelsea's club-record signing, surpassing Enzo Fernandez's £107 million arrival in 2023.
Rogers' Three Reasons for Snubbing Arsenal
According to The Athletic, Rogers was given three compelling reasons to join Chelsea over Arsenal. Firstly, the exciting project sold to him by the Blues swayed his decision. Secondly, the presence of manager Xabi Alonso at Stamford Bridge was a major factor. Finally, Chelsea informed Rogers that they intend to use him on the left wing next season, which sealed the deal. The 23-year-old is expected to undergo a medical this week.
Arsenal Eye £110m Hijack for Yan Diomande
Mikel Arteta's side are now moving on from the failed Rogers pursuit and could instead hijack Paris Saint-Germain's move for RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande. The 19-year-old had been heavily linked with Liverpool earlier in the window, with the Reds submitting a £86.8 million bid. However, Diomande preferred a move to France, and Leipzig value him at £110 million (€130 million).
According to Fabrizio Romano, Arsenal have enquired with Diomande's agents in recent days to gauge the possibility of signing him. The Gunners would need to match Leipzig's valuation but may adopt a more aggressive approach after losing out on Rogers to Chelsea. Diomande has already agreed personal terms with PSG, with L'Equipe reporting that a fee is being negotiated between the clubs.
Other Arsenal Transfer Activity
Earlier this summer, Arsenal secured permanent deals for Piero Hincapie and Illan Meslier. Paris Saint-Germain's Bradley Barcola and Lille's Ayyoub Bouaddi have also been linked with moves to the Emirates. The Gunners are pushing for more signings as Arteta looks to strengthen his squad for the upcoming season.
