Arsenal are reportedly preparing a surprise January move for Elche midfielder Rodrigo Mendoza, setting the stage for a potential transfer battle with Manchester City, Real Madrid, and Juventus.
Who is Rodrigo Mendoza?
The Gunners' recruitment team has been closely monitoring the 20-year-old Spanish starlet, whose performances in La Liga have attracted attention from several elite European clubs. According to reports from the Telegraph, Arsenal officials have even travelled to Spain to watch the young talent in action.
Mendoza represents a significant opportunity in the transfer market, with his release clause set at just £17.5 million. This modest fee would make him the most expensive sale in Elche's history if triggered, despite the player only signing a new contract with the club in August that secures his future until 2028.
Intense Competition for Signature
Arsenal will face stiff competition for Mendoza's signature, with Real Madrid considered long-term admirers of the player. The Spain youth international has drawn comparisons to Barcelona star Pedri, highlighting his potential quality.
Manchester City and Juventus are also among the clubs touted to be interested, making this one of the most contested potential transfers of the upcoming window. Although a summer exit is considered more likely for Mendoza, sources suggest a winter move cannot be ruled out entirely.
Mendoza's Career Trajectory
The academy product came through the ranks at Elche, making his senior debut in the 2022/23 season in the Copa del Rey. Relegation to the second tier provided more opportunities for the youngster, who made 26 appearances in the 2023/24 season and 24 appearances in the 2024/25 season, helping Elche achieve promotion back to the top flight.
This season, Mendoza has made nine La Liga appearances and scored one goal from the centre of the pitch, though he remained on the bench for the club's most recent game against Real Madrid.
Interestingly, Mendoza already has a connection to the Arsenal squad, as he is a teammate of summer signing Cristhian Mosquera in the Spain under-21 international setup.
This potential move represents a shift in strategy for Arsenal, who were not initially planning significant January signings. Manager Mikel Arteta and sporting director Andrea Berta had been focusing on forward-planning for the summer window, following significant spending ahead of the current season that brought in Martin Zubimendi, Eberechi Eze and Viktor Gyokeres.
However, given the substantial competition for Mendoza's services and his attractive release clause, Arsenal may decide to wrap up a deal sooner rather than later to secure one of La Liga's most promising talents.
