Arsenal must pay British record £130m for Aston Villa forward Morgan Rogers
Aston Villa have told Arsenal they must pay a British-record transfer fee of £130m to sign versatile forward Morgan Rogers this summer.
Mikel Arteta’s side are seeking attacking reinforcements following another gruelling Premier League title campaign.
The North London club view the 23-year-old as an ideal addition to their front line, particularly with Gabriel Jesus reportedly facing an uncertain future.
However, the West Midlands outfit are financially secure and remain under no pressure to sell one of their prized assets.
Champions League ambitions
The dynamic attacker was instrumental in securing a top-four finish last season, registering 14 goals and 12 assists across all competitions.
That stellar form helped seal a return to Europe’s elite club competition for Unai Emery’s squad.
It is understood that only a monumental bid of £130m will convince the Villa hierarchy to part ways with their breakout star.
Transfer budget dilemma
Meeting such an exorbitant valuation would comfortably shatter the previous £100m club-record fee paid for Declan Rice last year.
While transfer funds are available at the Emirates Stadium, sporting director Andrea Berta and Arteta are proceeding cautiously with their recruitment strategy.
Committing such a vast sum to a single player would severely restrict their ability to strengthen other areas of the pitch unless offset by significant player sales.
Praise from the manager
The English forward’s ability to operate centrally or out wide makes him a highly coveted target for the Gunners.
Villa boss Emery recently lauded his player’s exceptional work ethic and tactical adaptability.
“He loves football – his commitment with the club is fantastic, his attitude every day.”
“He’s a leader in the dressing room because he’s always positive, he has energy, and then he has skills, of course.”
“His versatility is very important and to be positive playing 10 numbers inside, 10 numbers outside, even like a winger, is very, very important for us.”
Despite the astronomical asking price, recent reports suggest the Gunners are still making steady progress in their pursuit of the highly-rated prospect.