Transfer news LIVE: Arsenal step up Morgan Rogers pursuit as Barcelona eye Pedro Porro

Arsenal Accelerate Pursuit of Morgan Rogers as Transfer Window Heats Up

Arsenal have identified Aston Villa forward Morgan Rogers as their primary attacking target for the summer transfer window. Following the successful agreement of a deal for Club Brugge winger Christos Tzolis, the Gunners are now preparing to initiate formal club-to-club negotiations with Aston Villa to secure the England international.

While Arsenal have reportedly made significant progress in discussions with the player’s camp—with personal terms said to be nearing a full agreement—no official talks have yet taken place between the two clubs. Reports indicate that Arsenal are expected to lodge their first formal bid for the 23-year-old in the near future.

Arsenal Accelerate Pursuit of Morgan Rogers as Transfer Window Heats Up
Photo: Football365

The Stakes of the Rogers Pursuit

The potential transfer of Morgan Rogers has become a focal point of Arsenal’s summer recruitment strategy. Despite the acquisition of Christos Tzolis, manager Mikel Arteta remains keen to bolster his left-sided attacking options, particularly with Leandro Trossard linked to a move to Besiktas and uncertainty surrounding Gabriel Martinelli’s future at the club.

The financial scale of the deal is expected to be substantial. Aston Villa are reportedly holding out for a high fee, with some valuations reaching as much as £130 million. Market precedents, such as the £116 million move of Elliot Anderson to Manchester City, have set a high benchmark for top-tier midfield and attacking talent. While some reports suggest a deal could potentially be negotiated closer to the £100 million mark, Villa remain in a strong bargaining position after Rogers signed a contract extension last November that runs until 2031.

For more on this story, see Breaking: Morgan Rogers Eyeing Arsenal Move, Rashford Ready for Pay Cut at Tottenham, Spurs Chase Tonali-Full Transfer Updates Inside!.

Versatility and Tactical Fit

Arsenal’s interest in Rogers is driven by his tactical flexibility. Although he has frequently operated as an attacking midfielder—even challenging Jude Bellingham for the England No. 10 role—data from the 2025/26 Premier League season shows that approximately 45 percent of his minutes for Aston Villa were played as a left winger.

Rogers, who joined Villa from Middlesbrough in 2024 for £16 million, has enjoyed a rapid rise. Last season, he recorded 14 goals and 11 assists in 55 appearances. His versatility has been a hallmark of his career, having played across the front line and in midfield for various clubs and during his 21 appearances for England, including five matches at the 2026 World Cup where he provided an assist in the semi-final against Argentina.

Morgan Rogers 'Acceleration' Christos Tzolis DEAL, 'Saliba Fractured Back?!' Arsenal Transfer Show

This follows our earlier report, Arsenal Plan Shock Swap: Gyokeres for Julian Alvarez as Barcelona and Atletico Negotiate.

Barcelona Eyeing Pedro Porro

While Arsenal focus on their forward line, European giants are also active in the market. Barcelona have expressed interest in Tottenham Hotspur right-back Pedro Porro following his impressive showings for Spain at the World Cup. However, a move to the Camp Nou appears unlikely.

Barcelona Eyeing Pedro Porro
Photo: Sky Sports

Read also: Eberechi Eze’s Best Goals for Arsenal: Watch Top Highlights & Videos.

Broader Transfer Landscape

Arsenal’s summer activity is not limited to Rogers. The club remains interested in strengthening their midfield, with Newcastle United’s Bruno Guimaraes mentioned as a target. Meanwhile, other potential targets like PSG’s Bradley Barcola remain subjects of speculation. While reports have linked Arsenal to Barcola, sources indicate there are no active negotiations between the two clubs, and Liverpool continues to maintain interest in the French winger.

As the transfer window progresses, clubs continue to assess their squads and financial positions. For Arsenal, the coming weeks will determine whether they can meet Aston Villa’s valuation and finalize what would be a significant addition to their Premier League title-chasing squad.

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