Arsenal have entered the race to sign highly-rated Elche midfielder Rodrigo Mendoza, who has emerged as a serious transfer target for several top European clubs including Real Madrid.
The Rising Star Attracting Premier League Interest
The Gunners' recruitment team have been closely monitoring the 20-year-old Spanish prospect and are reportedly weighing up a move to activate his €20 million (£17.5 million) release clause. Mendoza has enjoyed a remarkable rise through the ranks at his boyhood club, playing a pivotal role in their promotion back to La Liga last season after a two-year absence from Spain's top flight.
Despite his youth, Mendoza has continued to impress this campaign, delivering a series of mature performances that have helped Elche secure a respectable tenth-place position in the league table. His consistent displays in central midfield haven't gone unnoticed, with scouts from across Europe regularly attending Elche matches to assess his potential.
Intense Competition for Spanish Prospect
According to reports from The Telegraph, Arsenal face significant competition for Mendoza's signature. Real Madrid are known admirers of the young playmaker, while several Italian clubs are also circling. The Spanish media have compared Mendoza's playing style to Barcelona superstar Rodri, highlighting his technical ability, vision and composure on the ball.
Mendoza's current contract with Elche runs until June 2028, providing the Alicante-based club with strong negotiating power. However, the presence of a relatively modest release clause by modern standards has put elite clubs on red alert.
While most sources suggest Mendoza is more likely to move next summer, there remains a possibility that he could be sold in the January transfer window if any interested party meets his buyout clause.
International Future and Manager's Stance
The talented midfielder is widely tipped for a bright future with the Spanish national team, having progressed through all youth levels from the Under-17s to the current Under-21s setup. His development continues to be tracked closely by Spanish football authorities.
Elche manager Eder Sarabia recently addressed speculation linking Mendoza with Real Madrid ahead of their 2-2 draw at the weekend. Sarabia played down the rumours, insisting the player remains fully focused on his football and that it would take a lot of money to prise him away from the club.
Speaking to reporters, Sarabia revealed: Before Spain's U21 team faced Romania, he texted me and said he was doing very well. The matches haven't been particularly demanding and he wanted to be here from the moment the training camp ended.
We're delighted that he continues to develop with the national team, where he's adding to his skills and is surrounded by fantastic players in a great atmosphere. From there, his return and integration will be natural. He'll be at 100 per cent to face Real Madrid.
The manager added: Regarding the rumours, he is in a good position and surrounded by good people. If anyone wants Rodrigo, they should pay a lot of money, and we'll see if he leaves or not.
As the January transfer window approaches, Arsenal will need to act decisively if they're to secure one of Spanish football's most promising young talents ahead of their European rivals.
