Morgan Rogers is increasingly likely to join Arsenal this summer after Aston Villa agreed a club-record deal to sign Johan Manzambi from SC Freiburg. The agreement, exceeding €60 million according to Fabrizio Romano, sees Villa secure the services of the Switzerland international who impressed at the 2026 World Cup with five goal contributions in four matches and helped Freiburg reach the Europa League final.
Manzambi’s arrival at Villa Park marks the club’s second signing of the window following the capture of Modou Keba Cisse from LASK. However, the move has significant implications for Rogers’ future, with Arsenal now pushing to finalise a deal for the England international. Chelsea are also interested, but their lack of European competition puts them at a disadvantage, while Manchester United have also been linked.
Aston Villa had previously been reluctant to sell Rogers, reportedly demanding a fee exceeding €120 million. However, the signing of Manzambi, who plays in the same attacking midfield position as Rogers, suggests a change in strategy. Both players thrive as number 10s, making it difficult for Unai Emery to accommodate them both within his preferred 4-4-1-1 formation.
FootballTransfers understands that Rogers is eager to move to the Emirates Stadium, and Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is prioritising his signing. The Gunners are preparing for the departure of Leandro Trossard to Besiktas and view Rogers as a key replacement. Other attacking options, including Julian Alvarez, Bradley Barcola, and Christos Tzolis, are also being considered, but Rogers remains the primary target. Last season, Rogers contributed 16 goals and assists in 37 Premier League appearances for Aston Villa, and a transfer to Arsenal could potentially make him the club’s most expensive signing ever.
