Just weeks after securing Martín Zubimendi from Real Sociedad, Arsenal Football Club is reportedly ready to strike again — this time targeting 20-year-old Spanish midfielder Rodrigo Mendoza from Elche CF. Sources including The Telegraph, ESPN, and Football FanCast confirm Arsenal’s intention to activate Mendoza’s €20 million ($23 million) release clause in the summer 2025 window, bypassing even Real Madrid CF, who’ve long monitored the rising star. The move isn’t just about filling a gap — it’s about outmaneuvering a rival that’s already lost one Spanish midfield jewel to the Gunners this year.
Why Elche? Why Now?
Elche CF, a club founded in 1923 and based in the city of Elche in Spain’s Valencian Community, earned promotion to LaLiga Santander for the 2024-25 season after a dramatic playoff run. In their first top-flight campaign since 2020, they’ve been quietly brilliant — and Mendoza has been their revelation. The 20-year-old, who’s earned seven caps for the Spain U-21 team since September 2023, has orchestrated play with a calmness beyond his years. Spanish media have drawn direct parallels to Pedri, FC Barcelona’s prodigy, praising his vision, close control, and ability to thread passes through tight channels.Manager Mikel Arteta, 42, has reportedly held initial talks with Mendoza’s representatives. According to Football FanCast, Arteta sees him as the perfect fit for Arsenal’s high-press, possession-based system — especially with the Gunners sitting 12 points clear at the top of the Premier League after 14 wins from 14 matches. Unlike Real Madrid’s traditional focus on global superstars, Arteta and sporting director Edu Gaspar have built a reputation for identifying undervalued talents and developing them into key contributors. Zubimendi’s €60 million signing last summer was a statement. Mendoza, for a fifth of that price, could be the next.
Real Madrid’s Dilemma
Real Madrid CF didn’t just lose Zubimendi — they lost a blueprint. After years of chasing elite midfielders like Rodri and Tchouaméni, they’re now staring at a cheaper, younger alternative slipping away. The retirement of Toni Kroos at the end of the 2023-24 season left a void in the heart of Carlo Ancelotti’s midfield. While Eduardo Camavinga and Aurélien Tchouaméni are talented, neither fully replicates Kroos’s passing range or composure under pressure. Real Madrid’s recruitment team, led by president Florentino Pérez, 77, has reportedly been divided: some want to wait for the 2026 window to pursue bigger names; others argue Mendoza’s €20 million price tag is too good to ignore.“They’re not just watching him — they’re scared he’ll become the next Zubimendi,” said one LaLiga insider speaking to AS on November 24. “Arsenal didn’t just buy a player. They bought a future Spanish international who’s already performing at the highest level in Spain’s second tier. Now he’s doing it in LaLiga.”
Even more telling? Real Madrid’s budget for the 2025 window is reportedly tighter than in recent years. While they’re still eyeing targets like Manchester City’s Rodri or Liverpool’s Alexis Mac Allister — both priced above €80 million — Mendoza represents a rare, affordable solution. But time is running out. If Arsenal moves first, Real Madrid’s chances vanish.
The Bigger Picture: Arsenal’s Talent Machine
This isn’t luck. It’s a system. Since Arteta took over in 2019, Arsenal have shifted from spending big on aging stars to investing in youth with high ceilings. Mendoza joins a pipeline that includes Takehiro Tomiyasu, Gabriel Martinelli, and Bukayo Saka — all signed before they became household names. The club’s scouting network, now one of the most respected in Europe, spotted Mendoza during Elche’s promotion campaign and immediately flagged him as a potential breakout. His stats — 4 goals and 6 assists in 18 LaLiga appearances as of late November 2024 — are impressive for a teenager in his debut top-flight season.And the timing couldn’t be better. With Arsenal leading the Premier League and playing an attractive, attacking brand of football, Mendoza would be stepping into a winning environment — not a rebuilding project. His potential role? A deep-lying playmaker who can dictate tempo, recycle possession, and unlock defenses with incisive through balls — exactly what the Gunners need as they chase their first league title since 2004.
What’s Next?
The summer 2025 transfer window opens July 1, 2025, and closes August 30, 2025 in England — though LaLiga’s dates may vary slightly. Elche CF, playing at the 33,732-capacity Manuel Martínez Valero Stadium, has no obligation to sell before then. But with a release clause in place, and Arsenal’s clear intent, negotiations are likely to begin in earnest by April 2025. If Mendoza continues his form, his market value could surge — making a summer move even more urgent for Arsenal.For Elche, the sale would be transformative. The club’s revenue has already jumped 300% since promotion. A €20 million payout — roughly 10 times their annual budget — would fund youth development, stadium upgrades, and new signings. They’re not just selling a player. They’re securing their future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Arsenal targeting Rodrigo Mendoza instead of a bigger name?
Arsenal’s strategy under Mikel Arteta prioritizes high-potential, undervalued talents over expensive stars. Mendoza’s €20 million release clause offers elite technical ability at a fraction of the cost of targets like Rodri or Mac Allister. His style mirrors Pedri and Zubimendi — players Arsenal have already successfully signed. This isn’t a gamble; it’s a proven model.
Could Real Madrid still sign Mendoza before summer 2025?
Technically yes, but it’s highly unlikely. Elche CF has no incentive to sell during the January 2025 window — they’re enjoying their return to LaLiga and Mendoza is central to their success. Arsenal’s early interest and the presence of a release clause mean they’re in the driver’s seat. Real Madrid would need to offer significantly more than €20 million, which contradicts their reported budget constraints.
How does Mendoza compare to Pedri and Zubimendi?
Mendoza shares Pedri’s vision and close control, but he’s slightly more physical — a trait that could make him better suited to the Premier League. Compared to Zubimendi, he’s younger and less experienced at the highest level, but his passing range and decision-making under pressure are remarkably similar. Both are left-footed, defensive-minded playmakers who can transition from defense to attack seamlessly.
What impact would Mendoza have on Arsenal’s 2025-26 season?
If integrated properly, Mendoza could become the long-term successor to Thomas Partey, providing stability in midfield while allowing Declan Rice to push forward. His ability to control tempo and distribute under pressure would make Arsenal even more difficult to break down. With a squad already leading the Premier League, adding a player of his potential could be the final piece in their title challenge.
Why hasn’t Manchester City or Juventus moved yet?
Both clubs are monitoring Mendoza, but they’re likely waiting to see if he’s truly ready for elite European football. City’s midfield is already stacked with Rodri, Phil Foden, and Mateo Kovacic. Juventus, facing financial constraints and a rebuild, may see Mendoza as too risky for their current project. Arsenal, by contrast, have the tactical system and development infrastructure to nurture him quickly.
What happens if Elche CF refuses to sell in summer 2025?
If Elche refuses, Arsenal could wait until the next window — but Mendoza’s release clause expires after the 2025 summer transfer. If he continues to impress, his value could rise to €40 million or more, making a future move far more expensive. Elche’s board may be tempted to sell if a competing bid emerges, but with Arsenal’s clear intent and the player’s preference, the odds favor a transfer.
