Arsenal thought they had Morgan Rogers all but wrapped up. Then Chelsea happened.
On July 18, the Blues swooped in with a staggering £117 million bid for the Aston Villa attacking midfielder. Within hours, a verbal agreement was in place. Rogers picked Stamford Bridge. And just like that, Arsenal’s carefully laid summer plans fell apart.
The sting is real. According to transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, Arsenal had “almost agreed” a contract with the 23-year-old England international. They were planning talks with Villa the following week to settle a fee.
But Arsenal didn’t want to go as high as £117 million. They were hoping to land Rogers for somewhere between £90 and £100 million. Chelsea didn’t hesitate. They paid the premium. Deal done.
“What happened in the last 24 hours is that Chelsea entered the deal in a very strong, strong way,” Romano explained on his YouTube channel.
Rogers reportedly chose Chelsea in part because of new manager Xabi Alonso’s vision for the club. Personal terms on a six-year contract through to 2032 were swiftly agreed.
It’s a bitter blow for Mikel Arteta.
Why Rogers Mattered So Much
Rogers wasn’t just a name on a list. He was the name. The one Arteta wanted above all others this summer.
Why? Versatility.
Rogers could play from the left wing and as a No. 10 — a rare combination at the top level. That flexibility would’ve solved two problems at once for Arsenal.
Arteta has been clear: he wants two new left-sided attackers. Last season, Gabriel Martinelli scored just once in the Premier League. Leandro Trossard managed a single club goal in 2026 before his move to Besiktas. The left flank desperately needed an upgrade.
The silver lining? Arsenal have sealed the signing of Christos Tzolis from Club Brugge, who bagged 22 goals last season. But Tzolis alone isn’t enough to fill the void Rogers would have occupied.
So where do Arsenal turn now?
The Alternatives Arsenal Are Chasing
Arteta and sporting director Andrea Berta aren’t short of options. The Gunners have been working on multiple fronts, and several names are firmly in the frame.
Here’s who Arsenal are looking at:
1. Bradley Barcola (PSG)
The leading alternative. In 2024/25, the French winger registered 21 goals and 21 assists for PSG. He’s direct, explosive, and more of a natural winger than Rogers ever was. Reports in Spain suggest he’s already been offered to Arsenal during talks. Liverpool are also keen, but Arsenal can offer Champions League football and a starting spot.
2. Antonio Nusa (RB Leipzig)
The 21-year-old Norwegian dazzled at the 2026 World Cup, particularly when tormenting England’s defenders. His pace and ability to play on both flanks make him an intriguing prospect. Arsenal are reportedly preparing a €40 million opening bid, though Leipzig want closer to €60 million. His connection with fellow Norwegian Martin Odegaard could be a factor, too.
3. Nico Williams (Athletic Bilbao)
A long-standing Arteta favourite. Arsenal are reportedly ready to trigger his €90 million release clause. The 23-year-old Spain international is open to a Premier League move, and he’d add serious firepower from the left.
4. Kenan Yildiz (Juventus)
Still only 21, Yildiz scored 11 goals and provided 10 assists last season. With Juventus failing to qualify for the Champions League, a sale isn’t out of the question. He’s been linked to Arsenal for years.
5. Julian Alvarez (Atletico Madrid)
David Ornstein confirmed Arsenal’s interest in the Argentine striker alongside their pursuit of Rogers. Alvarez prefers Barcelona, but Atletico won’t sell to a La Liga rival. That could open the door for Arsenal if they act fast.
Beyond these names, 19-year-old Bournemouth striker Eli Junior Kroupi is also on the radar. He scored 13 Premier League goals last season as a teenager and represents a younger, more affordable option up front.
What Happens Next for Arsenal
The clock is ticking. Arteta has already signed Piero Hincapie, goalkeeper Illan Meslier, and the incoming Tzolis. But the squad still needs at least one more marquee attacker, possibly two.
After the Champions League final against PSG and a Premier League title, this squad is close to something special. But “close” doesn’t win you anything — Arsenal know that better than most after finishing second three years running before finally lifting the trophy last season.
Speaking after the final game of last season, Arteta put it plainly: “We will have to start making some very important decisions if we want to reach another level. We are going to have to show that ambition.”
Losing Rogers to Chelsea hurts. There’s no way around it. But Arsenal’s summer is far from over. The targets are there. The money is there. Andrea Berta has built squads at the highest level before.
Now it’s about speed, conviction, and making sure Chelsea don’t beat them to the punch again.
