Arsenal are preparing to make their opening offer for Aston Villa star Morgan Rogers after making significant progress in discussions with the player’s representatives, according to fresh reports.
The Gunners have spent several weeks working on a potential deal behind the scenes and now believe they are in a strong position to step up their pursuit of one of the Premier League’s most sought-after attackers.
Sources indicate Arsenal have made major headway in negotiations with Rogers’ camp, leaving Mikel Arteta’s side increasingly optimistic that the England international favours a move to the Emirates Stadium.
With those talks progressing positively, Arsenal are now preparing to test Aston Villa’s resolve with a formal bid.
Convincing Villa to sell, however, will be far from straightforward.
The Midlands club have repeatedly insisted Rogers is not on the market and are expected to demand a fee well in excess of £100 million before even considering negotiations.
Reports suggest Villa would only entertain offers that eclipse the British-record fee Manchester City paid for Elliot Anderson, meaning Arsenal could be forced to spend more than £116 million to land their top target.
Despite the enormous valuation, Arsenal believe there is still a realistic chance of completing the transfer if they can strike the right agreement with Villa.
The Gunners are also aware they face stiff competition.
Chelsea remain interested in Rogers, with the club’s recruitment chief Joe Shields having a long-standing admiration for the player. Manchester City are also monitoring developments and would welcome the opportunity to bring their former academy prospect back to the Etihad Stadium.
Liverpool and Manchester United are continuing to keep a close eye on the situation, although Arsenal are currently regarded as the frontrunners.
Rogers has emerged as Arsenal’s priority attacking target ahead of other options, including Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola and Club Brugge’s Christos Tzolis.
Arteta reportedly views the Aston Villa star as the ideal long-term solution for the left side of his attack, believing his versatility, athleticism and creativity would significantly strengthen Arsenal’s frontline.
The club’s attacking overhaul has already begun, with Leandro Trossard moving closer to a transfer to Besiktas, while Gabriel Martinelli and Gabriel Jesus are also reportedly available should suitable offers arrive.
Arsenal’s confidence may be growing, but any deal now depends on whether they are prepared to meet Aston Villa’s record-breaking valuation for one of England’s brightest young talents.
