New Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso has issued a hands-off warning over Rodrygo amid links to Arsenal.
The Gunners will look to bolster their attacking options this summer after Mikel Arteta made it clear that “goals” and “creativity” must be added to the squad ahead of the new season.
A string of forwards have since been linked with a move to the Emirates Stadium, including Sporting CP centre-forward Viktor Gyokeres and RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko.
Though, more recently Rodrygo has been mentioned as a target amid reports the Brazil international could be allowed to leave Real Madrid this summer as part of a squad overhaul.
However, Alonso - who has officially succeeded Carlo Ancelotti as Los Blancos boss - has closed the door on a potential exit for the 24-year-old.
Speaking at his unveiling on Monday, Alonso said: "He's a Madrid player and I will have a conversation with everyone because we need to do so.
"We'll get to know each other. He's a spectacular player and we need him."
Prior to Arsenal’s final game of the season away at Southampton, Arteta insisted the club should be in the conversation for the game’s top players if the club are to achieve their aim of lifting silverware.
That said, the Spaniard refused to be drawn on specific targets such as Rodrygo.
“I mean, if you want to win major trophies, you have to be the best in the market, no? The teams that win have the best players, always, always at this level,” said Arteta.
“I think the biggest thing is that, and using the word pride, is that we have brought the club into a position, into a place that next season: ‘You have to win a major trophy.’
