Arsenal's interest in Rogers intensifies
Arsenal have identified Morgan Rogers as their primary forward target this summer, with an approach to Aston Villa expected in the coming days. The 23-year-old has rapidly established himself as one of the most exciting talents in English football, earning the trust of Unai Emery, forcing his way into Thomas Tuchel's England plans, and attracting the attention of Europe's elite.
Sky Sports News understands the Arsenal have made Rogers their number-one attacking priority as they look to reinforce Mikel Arteta's squad following their Premier League triumph. The club are now poised to test Villa's resolve with a formal bid, although the West Midlands side are in a strong negotiating position after tying Rogers down to a long-term contract until 2031 last November.
Why Arsenal want Rogers
Arsenal's pursuit of a left-sided forward has become urgent following the departure of Leandro Trossard to Besiktas and ongoing uncertainty over Gabriel Martinelli's future. While Eberechi Eze, signed from Crystal Palace for £67.5m last summer, can operate on the flank, the majority of his appearances have come in the No.10 role.
Rogers offers a natural solution. Despite being utilised centrally by Emery for much of last season, the England international is equally comfortable on the left, where he started 15 games and registered eight goal involvements—the same output he managed in 21 appearances through the middle. His ability to cut inside on his favoured right foot or drive to the byline would provide Arsenal with a much-needed alternative outlet, addressing the imbalance that saw only 33% of their attacks originate down the left flank compared to 43% on Bukayo Saka's right side.
Where would he fit?
Should a deal materialise, Arsenal plan to deploy Rogers as a left winger—a role in which his attacking metrics rise notably. Data from last season shows an increase in goals, chances created, assists, and shots per game when he plays on the left rather than centrally. Although Arteta's system demands greater positional discipline than Rodgers enjoys at Villa, the youngster has demonstrated he can thrive with a clear remit.
Adding Rogers would not only bring balance to the Gunners' attack but also create a formidable duo with Saka, ensuring teams cannot simply overcompensate to one side. With Noni Madueke and Max Dowman covering the right, and Eze and Martinelli offering further flexibility, Arteta would have the depth to rotate effectively across multiple competitions.
Competition for his signature
Arsenal are not alone in their admiration. Chelsea, Manchester United, Paris Saint-Germain, and Bayern Munich have all tracked Rogers, but it is the Gunners who have now stepped up their interest. Villa, however, are reluctant sellers. The player's growing importance to Emery's project—he missed only two league games in two seasons—and a contract running until 2031 mean any exit will require a fee well in excess of £100m, reflecting the valuations set by recent midfield deals such as those for Elliot Anderson and Sandro Tonali.
Rogers himself has given no indication of pushing for a move, but the lure of Champions League football with the reigning champions could prove difficult to resist. For now, all eyes are on whether Arsenal's expected approach will be enough to test Villa's resolve.
