LONDON: Arsenal have identified Brahim Diaz as an alternative target if they fail to land Rodrygo from Real Madrid in this transfer window.
The Gunners are in the process of strengthening their front line by looking for a left winger in addition to a quality number nine.
Rodrygo, 24, is the main target for Mikel Arteta’s squad after the player’s future at the Bernabeu is still unclear, in addition to Nico Williams, who has long been wanted by Arsenal.
Brahim, 25, is reportedly the best option besides Rodrygo and is much cheaper than the former Santos player.
Arsenal are said to be willing to offer up to 42.6 million pounds to bring the versatile striker to the Emirates.
However, it is not yet certain whether Diaz is ready to make the move to the Premier League. Bayer Leverkusen, currently managed by Erik ten Hag, are also interested in the Moroccan player.
Arsenal also have to compete with Saudi Arabian clubs such as Al-Nassr and Al-Hilal who are capable of offering up to 110.8 million pounds to sign Rodrygo.
Rodrygo may have thought long and hard before deciding to move to a league in the Middle East, but such a high offer would be difficult for Real Madrid to refuse, let alone for a player who is not the first choice of manager Carlo Ancelotti.
However, Rodrygo still has hope of returning to the first team under new manager Xabi Alonso.