Arsenal have laid significant groundwork for a move for Morgan Rogers, with the Aston Villa midfielder keen on the switch.
According to the BBC’s Sami Mokbel, the Premier League champions have worked hard to make a summer deal achievable. The player himself is said to be eager.
Mokbel left little doubt about the state of play. “My understanding is that Morgan Rogers is a player that Arsenal would like to sign, and lots of groundwork has been done to try to get that deal into a position where it’s doable this summer,” he said.
He went further on the player’s stance. “If Arsenal were to formalise their interest now, during the World Cup, it’s a deal I believe he would like,” Mokbel added.
“If a deal between Arsenal and Aston Villa can be agreed, I think he would jump at the chance to join.”
Arsenal step up Morgan Rogers pursuit as player eyes move
The 23-year-old fits a clear need. Arsenal want a left-sided forward, with the futures of Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli uncertain.
Rogers, an attacking midfielder who can also play wide, suits that brief for Mikel Arteta and sporting director Andrea Berta.
His stock could hardly be higher. Rogers scored 14 goals and added 12 assists last season as Villa won the Europa League and finished fourth.
He was also named PFA Young Player of the Year and has impressed at the World Cup.
The obstacle, as ever, is the fee. Villa are expected to demand in excess of £80m, with some reports suggesting the figure could climb towards £100m.
A contract until 2031 strengthens their hand considerably.
Arsenal will also face competition. Chelsea and Manchester City admire Rogers, with City holding an interest given his formative years at the Etihad. PSG have monitored him too.
This pursuit gathered fresh urgency after Nico Williams, another Arsenal target, committed his future to Athletic Club this week.
