Former Arsenal midfielder Gilberto Silva has publicly advised his old club to make a fresh attempt to sign Real Madrid forward Rodrygo, as the Brazilian international continues to face limited opportunities in Spain.
Struggle for Minutes in Madrid
The 24-year-old Brazilian was the subject of intense transfer speculation during the summer, with Arsenal and Chelsea both heavily linked with a move for his signature. Despite talks with new Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso, Rodrygo opted to remain at the Bernabéu.
However, that decision has not translated into regular playing time. This season, Rodrygo has been named in the starting lineup for just two of Real Madrid's first twelve La Liga matches, fuelling fresh rumours about his long-term future at the club.
Silva's Public Endorsement
Speaking to talkSPORT, the Invincibles legend Gilberto Silva expressed his belief that the Gunners should capitalise on the situation. "At the beginning of the season, I thought it would be fantastic to have Rodrygo at the club," Silva stated.
He acknowledged the player's difficult circumstances, adding, "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." Silva confirmed that any deal would likely still command a fee in the region of €80 million (£70 million).
The Arsenal Squad Dilemma
While advocating for the transfer, Silva also injected a note of caution regarding Arsenal's considerable depth in attacking positions. The club strengthened its wide options in the summer with the acquisitions of Eberechi Eze and Noni Madueke, while retaining Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard.
"The only question is, where would he fit?" Silva pondered. "Maybe a few years ago, it would have been much easier to find a good player to fit that Arsenal squad. However, nowadays, even if you are a good player, it's not so easy to find a starting place in this current team."
Rodrygo's Stated Commitment to Real Madrid
Despite the ongoing speculation, Rodrygo himself has previously downplayed any desire to leave the Spanish giants. In an interview with Spanish publication AS after the summer window closed, he insisted, "I always made it clear to the club that I want to continue succeeding here."
He emphasised his commitment, stating, "As long as Real Madrid wants me, I'll be here." The forward is in his seventh season with the first team and has already won two Champions League titles with the club.
With the January transfer window on the horizon, the situation remains one to watch, as Mikel Arteta weighs up whether to test Real Madrid's resolve for a player whose opportunities appear to be severely limited.
