Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta in touch with 23-year-old Real Madrid forward over move to secure deal to bring him to Emirates: Reports

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has contacted Real Madrid star Rodrygo ahead of the January transfer window, according to Real Madrid Confidencial.

Rodrygo, 23, has cemented himself as a key member of Real Madrid's squad since departing Santos in the summer of 2019. He has helped Los Merengues lift 13 trophies, including three La Liga titles and two UEFA Champions League crowns.

However, Rodrygo has lately popped up as a potential outgoing for Real Madrid due to Kylian Mbappe's summer arrival. He has started 14 of his 20 total appearances for his club this term, registering five goals and four assists along the way.

As a result, Arteta has identified Rodrygo as a transfer target. But, Real Madrid's top brass are unwilling to part ways with the 31-cap Brazil international.

Rodrygo, whose current deal will run out in June 2028, has registered 60 goals and 45 assists in 237 games across competitions for Real Madrid so far.

Arsenal attacker urged to maintain recent form

Earlier this Saturday (December 21), Arsenal were dealt a major blow as Bukayo Saka picked up a hamstring injury during his team's 5-1 league win at Crystal Palace. They are reportedly expected to miss Saka for a number of weeks.

Speaking on BBC Match of the Day, England and Newcastle United great Alan Shearer stated that Gabriel Jesus has to fill the offensive void left by Saka. He said (h/t Metro):

"It will be a big loss for Arsenal. [They will miss] not only Saka's goals but his assists which is why I think it is important for Jesus to step up and try to replace him."

Jesus, 27, has scored five goals in his last two overall outings after finding the back of the net just once in his first 20 total games for Arsenal this term.

Asked about the Brazilian's return to good form, Shearer responded:

"He was having such a tough time in front of goal, but I think Mikel Arteta deserves a lot of credit because of what happened in midweek, he gets his goals and you can see the belief he would've had in training. He had to start him and it was a wonderful performance and it's no surprise he was back in the goals."

Shearer, who is the all-time highest Premier League goalscorer, added:

"His all-around play I thought was very, very good today also. He was bringing players into the game with little touches, going in behind. You can see he's got a pace about him again and he feels as if he belongs back in the team."