Arsenal transfer news: Gunners star recommended to Florentino Perez as summer target

Real Madrid are set to be busy in the upcoming summer transfer window, and an Arsenal star has been recommended to president Florentino Perez as he campaigns for re-election.

Following a trophyless season, the Spanish club's president announced elections in order to shore up his authority during a turbulent period. His challenger, 39-year-old Enrique Riquelme, is unlikely to unseat him, which should allow Real Madrid‘s summer plans to be launched in earnest, beginning with the appointment of Jose Mourinho as head coach.

And with the Special One in place, the summer 2026 transfer window can finally get underway.

Real Madrid tracking Arsenal star

According to information shared by TEAMtalk and journalist Graeme Bailey, Real Madrid are looking to recruit in midfield, with a view to signing two players. A new name has recently emerged on the Spanish giants' radar: Declan Rice. The 27-year-old Englishman has been recommended to president Perez by “certain close associates” and is one of the most important players in the Gunners squad, if not the best — he made 55 appearances this season, scoring five goals and providing 11 assists.

Signed for a fee of around £100 million (€116.6 million), Arsenal's number 41 is in discussions with the club hierarchy over a contract extension, with his current deal running until June 2028. Rice wants to become the highest-paid player at the Premier League champions and Champions League finalists. And with Real Madrid said to be “monitoring the situation closely”, talks between player and club could accelerate as a result of the new pressure arriving from Spain.

Real Madrid's two other midfield targets

Prising the midfielder away from Arsenal would require significant funds, but Real Madrid are also tracking other high-profile options. 2024 Ballon d'Or winner Rodri has been linked with a move to the Spanish capital for several months now. Following Pep Guardiola's departure from Manchester City, the 29-year-old Spaniard could also decide to move on, drawing a line under an era at the Etihad.

In addition, the La Liga runners-up are considering a move for Enzo Fernandez, whose future at Chelsea remains uncertain. However, the Blues have slapped a hefty £118 million (€139 million) price tag on the Argentine. To strengthen their midfield, Florentino Perez's Real Madrid — soon to be led by Jose Mourinho — will need to dig deep into their pockets to land a midfielder from the Premier League, whether that proves to be Declan Rice from Arsenal, Rodri from Manchester City or Enzo Fernandez from Chelsea.