By

Arinze Izik

London, June 22, 2026 – Arsenal are reportedly preparing to open talks with Aston Villa for forward Morgan Rogers as Mikel Arteta looks to strengthen his squad ahead of a Premier League title defence and another Champions League push.

The Gunners, fresh off winning the Champions League, already have depth and quality but are expected to fine-tune the squad this summer. Arteta is said to be targeting a left-winger, midfielder and possibly a striker.

Rogers emerges as priority target
According to HandofArsenal, Arsenal will officially approach Villa for Rogers in the coming weeks. Personal terms are not expected to be an issue, but the transfer fee will be key. Villa are believed to be demanding around £80 million for the England international.

Rogers is currently with England at the World Cup, so a deal is unlikely to be finalized during the tournament. However, talks between the two clubs could still progress.

Villa will be reluctant to lose their star man after securing Champions League qualification. But Rogers, described by Jamie Redknapp as “one of the world’s best players,” is seen as a title-calibre talent who may be tempted by a move to the reigning English champions.

Arsenal would likely deploy Rogers on the left wing unless Martin Odegaard exits, though he can also play as a central striker — a position already covered by Kai Havertz and Viktor Gyokeres.

Emery’s praise
Former Arsenal boss and current Villa manager Unai Emery has consistently praised Rogers. In December he said: “He’s a fantastic guy. 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 through the mentality he’s showing, he can get his best and add goals and assists.”