Arsenal have emerged as serious contenders to sign Aston Villa midfielder Morgan Rogers this summer, joining Chelsea in the race for the England international, according to TEAMtalk. The Gunners, under Mikel Arteta and sporting director Andrea Berta, have significantly increased their interest in the 23-year-old, despite Villa securing Champions League qualification for next season.
Unai Emery is reportedly keen to retain Rogers, viewing him as a key component of his long-term project at Villa Park. However, the club’s financial situation may force them to consider substantial offers, particularly as Rogers’ value continues to rise. Chelsea’s interest is being driven by Co-Director of Recruitment and Talent Joe Shields, who originally identified Rogers during his time at Manchester City and played a role in bringing him to the club’s academy from West Bromwich Albion.
Chelsea are considering Rogers as a potential long-term attacking partner for Cole Palmer, or as a player capable of stepping into a more central creative role should Palmer depart. Incoming manager Xabi Alonso is said to be supportive of the pursuit, and aware of the club’s plans. Arsenal, meanwhile, are attracted to Rogers’ versatility and ability to play across multiple attacking and midfield positions, viewing him as a potential solution to their ongoing need for improvement on the left side of attack.
The Gunners previously considered a move for Anthony Gordon, but ultimately did not pursue the Newcastle winger once Barcelona entered negotiations. While Arsenal are also monitoring other attacking options such as Nico Williams, Rafael Leao, Bradley Barcola, and Yan Diomande, sources indicate Rogers is now a priority target. Aston Villa are likely to demand a significant fee for Rogers, potentially exceeding the £100 million received for Jack Grealish in 2021, given the current market conditions. Manchester United and Bayern Munich are also monitoring the situation, but have not yet matched the level of engagement shown by Arsenal and Chelsea. Arsenal are pursuing Rogers separately from their interest in Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez, who is viewed as a central attacking target.
