Liverpool have officially completed the signing of Rodrygo from Real Madrid in a blockbuster deal worth €100 million. The transfer includes a buy-back clause for Madrid, while the 23-year-old Brazilian forward has already agreed on personal terms. He is expected to play a central role under new manager Arne Slot, potentially stepping in as Mohamed Salah’s long-term successor.
This move is a huge win for Liverpool, especially considering that Manchester City had reached an agreement worth £145 million with Madrid for the winger. Despite the financial lure elsewhere, Rodrygo was swayed by Liverpool’s history, passionate supporters, and ambitious project under Slot.
Transfer Details
Fee: €100 million (around £85m)
Contract: Personal terms agreed; includes Madrid buy-back clause
Role: Key attacking role under Arne Slot
Strengths: Pace, technical ability, creativity, and versatility across the front three
Rodrygo’s exit was largely influenced by Madrid’s recent capture of Kylian Mbappé, which forced the Spanish giants to trim their attacking options.
Fabrizio Romano’s Take
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has consistently linked Rodrygo with Manchester City, who see him as a possible replacement tied to the future of 21-year-old winger Savinho.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Romano explained:
“City want Rodrygo, but the deal is complex. His salary is high, the fee exceeds €100m, and he is happy at Real Madrid. This isn’t a transfer you close in 24 hours – it requires convincing the player and the club.”
Interestingly, Romano did not mention Liverpool at all in his latest update, suggesting the Reds’ negotiations were kept under wraps while City’s interest dominated the headlines.
Liverpool’s Financial Position
Liverpool have already proven their spending power this summer, tabling a £110m bid for Alexander Isak and raising funds through key sales – most notably Luis Díaz to Bayern Munich for £65.5m. The Rodrygo signing signals that the club’s finances are in strong shape heading into the new season.
Impact on Young Talent
One concern raised internally is how Rodrygo’s arrival could affect the development of Rio Ngumoha, the 16-year-old academy prodigy. While Cody Gakpo is currently Liverpool’s first-choice on the left, Ngumoha’s limited senior minutes suggest that competition for places is already fierce.
Rodrygo, who prefers to operate on the left, may complicate Ngumoha’s pathway. However, his ability to play anywhere across the front three makes him a valuable addition for depth, rotation, and tactical flexibility.
Final Thoughts
Real Madrid remain open to selling Rodrygo this summer, and Liverpool have acted decisively to seize the opportunity. With his blend of world-class talent and adaptability, Rodrygo could become a cornerstone of Slot’s Liverpool project – while also raising questions about how the club balances short-term ambition with the development of its brightest young talents.
