Arsenal keep Morgan Rogers door open as Andrea Berta gathers intel on big-money targets

Arsenal are continuing informal discussions over Morgan Rogers as sporting director Andrea Berta gathers intel on a range of left-winger targets. The Gunners are yet to focus in on one player, but Rogers is still very much in their thinking as the transfer window approaches a crucial stage.

Premier League clubs will be able to operate with greater financial freedom from the start of next month. PSR has forced many to keep their spending reined in until June 30 - the year-end accounting date for the 2024/25 season. Once that has been and gone, the transfer floodgates could open again, just as they did in the first phase of the window before the Club World Cup.

Berta and other senior Arsenal figures have been sounding out a number of candidates capable of offering Mikel Arteta a new option on the left wing. The club first reached out to Rogers' representatives a month ago and Express Sport understands that they have remained in contact while other targets have fallen by the wayside.

Arsenal were reluctant to meet Nico Williams' wage demands and he is now closing in on a move to Barcelona. Rodrygo is another pricey option and there is no guarantee that he will be allowed to leave Real Madrid, nor a concrete indication that he wants to depart. And Anthony Gordon has admirers at the Emirates but Newcastle could demand a nine-figure transfer fee.

A deal for Rogers could be done for upwards of £70million, although a lot will depend on Villa's financial situation.

They have been under PSR pressure to sell players so far this summer, but club chiefs are believed to be exploring the sale of their women's team to ease the strain. The likes of Emi Martinez and Jacob Ramsey could also be sold, which would leave them in a stronger position to keep hold of Rogers.

While Arsenal are looking at a range of targets out wide, Rogers comes with the added benefit of being able to play in central areas. Chelsea are also interested in the 22-year-old, while Liverpool's attention has waned since making enquiries before the window opened.

Chelsea star Noni Madueke and Crystal Palace ace Eberechi Eze are also believed to be on Arsenal's radar as part of a transfer mission which spells bad news for current left-wing starter Gabriel Martinelli, who could be sold for the right price.