Former Arsenal midfielder Gilberto Silva has publicly encouraged the Premier League leaders to reignite their pursuit of Real Madrid forward Rodrygo, whilst acknowledging a significant hurdle: the player's own fear over a lack of guaranteed playing time.
Summer Links and a Shifting Pecking Order
Arsenal were heavily linked with a move for the Brazilian international during the summer transfer window. This interest coincided with a period of uncertainty for Rodrygo at the Bernabéu following the appointment of new manager Xabi Alonso.
During the Club World Cup, it became clear that the 24-year-old had slipped down the attacking pecking order at the Spanish giants. Despite being a proven performer on the biggest stage, having won the Champions League multiple times with Real, Rodrygo has found starts hard to come by this season.
Gilberto's Endorsement and the £70m Question
Speaking to talkSPORT, Gilberto Silva made a compelling case for the signing. "I thought it would be fantastic to have Rodrygo at the club," he stated. "It is clear he will not have much of an opportunity to play under Xabi Alonso at Madrid, but he's a great player with real talent, which is a waste if he is on the bench."
He highlighted Rodrygo's versatility as a key asset, noting his ability to perform "not only from the left side but in other positions across the forward line as well." The former Invincible was pragmatic about the potential deal, estimating the cost would be around £70 million but insisting it would represent "shrewd business" for the Gunners.
The Major Obstacle: Fierce Competition at The Emirates
The most significant barrier to any transfer, however, is the immense depth Mikel Arteta has built in his squad. Gilberto himself admitted this is the central question, asking: "Where would he fit?"
Arsenal's attacking options have been bolstered since the summer with the arrival of Eberechi Eze, who joins a group including Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, Leandro Trossard, and Noni Madueke. This wealth of talent means Rodrygo would face a fierce battle for a starting spot, a stark contrast to the automatic role he might have walked into a few years ago.
Rodrygo's current season statistics reflect his reduced role, having only started twice in La Liga and is yet to score, though he has hit double figures in each of the previous three campaigns.
Despite Arsenal's sensational form—sitting top of the Premier League and with a perfect, goal-conceding record in the Champions League—the dilemma remains. For a move to materialise in January, the club would need to convince a Champions League winner that he is a vital piece of the puzzle, not just another option in an already crowded forward line.
