Arsenal are preparing to make a formal bid for Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers, with the 23-year-old reportedly favouring a move to the Emirates Stadium. However, Aston Villa are expected to strongly resist any offers below a substantial fee, potentially exceeding £100 million.
Rogers enjoyed a productive 2025/26 season, registering 17 goal contributions – 10 goals and seven assists – in 37 appearances for Villa. He also played a key role in their Europa League triumph, their first major trophy in 30 years. Despite Villa’s return to the Champions League, they may be compelled to consider a sale to balance their finances.
According to journalist Ben Jacobs, Arsenal view Rogers as their ‘leading target’ for the left wing or number 10 position, and are expected to open the bidding around £80 million. While Villa allowed Rogers to sign a new contract last year with an understanding a future departure could be considered for a fee of £80 million, club sources indicate they now value him considerably higher.
Transfer correspondent Graeme Bailey reports that Aston Villa have no intention of selling Rogers unless a record-breaking package is presented, referencing the £116 million Liverpool paid for Florian Wirtz as a benchmark. Unai Emery is keen to build his team around Rogers, and the club does not have a release clause in the player’s contract, giving them significant control over any potential transfer.
Despite Villa’s firm stance, Fabrizio Romano has stated that a move to Arsenal is “absolutely on,” and sources suggest Rogers is eager to take the next step in his career with the north London club. His desire to join Arsenal could prove decisive in persuading Villa to negotiate, though they are expected to drive a hard bargain.
Recent developments, including Elliot Anderson’s proposed move to Manchester City, have seemingly strengthened Villa’s resolve to secure a substantial fee for Rogers, reflecting his perceived value in the current market.
