Arsenal have made Aston Villa forward Morgan Rogers their primary target for the summer transfer window. The Premier League champions are preparing an approach for the England international, with the deal potentially costing up to £100 million.
Talks between the clubs have not yet begun, but contact is expected in the coming weeks. Aston Villa do not wish to sell the 23-year-old, who only signed a six-year contract extension in November after an outstanding debut season. Despite this, Arsenal are believed to be confident of completing the transfer, though they face competition from Chelsea and other clubs.
Rapid rise to prominence
Rogers joined Villa from Middlesbrough for £8 million in 2024 and quickly established himself as one of the division’s most exciting talents. He collected the PFA Young Player of the Year award and was named player of the tournament as Villa secured the Europa League title last season—their first major silverware since 1996.
The former West Bromwich Albion and Manchester City academy graduate is currently representing England at the World Cup in the United States. He appeared as a substitute in the opening victory over Croatia and is competing with childhood friend Jude Bellingham for a starting berth under Thomas Tuchel. Rogers is understood to be keen on moving to North London, where his ability to play on either wing would provide Mikel Arteta with tactical flexibility.
Squad restructuring
The pursuit of Rogers suggests potential changes to Arsenal’s attacking options. The club are open to selling winger Gabriel Martinelli this summer, which would create space and funds for new arrivals.
Arteta’s recruitment drive extends beyond the Villa forward. Arsenal are tracking 18-year-old Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, who carries a valuation of roughly £70 million and is also attracting interest from Liverpool. They are also nearing the completion of a £10 million to £15 million deal for Leicester City’s 16-year-old winger Jeremy Monga, who would add to an impressive collection of young talent at the Emirates that already features Max Dowman.