🚨Arsenal ‘closely monitoring’ Spanish sensation compared to Barcelona star Pedri
Mikel Arteta has an eye for emerging young stars...
Arsenal are stepping up their recruitment drive to secure the next generation of European talent, with Mikel Arteta and his team reportedly setting their sights on promising a Spanish midfielder.
While the North London club have been enjoying success at the top of the Premier League, adding depth and future quality to the midfield remains a priority, especially given the intense demands of domestic and European competition.
Arsenal closely monitoring Rodrigo Mendoza
According to The Telegraph, the Gunners are closely monitoring the 20-year-old Elche star Rodrigo Mendoza, whose performances in La Liga have drawn serious attention from several continental heavyweights.
Arsenal have deployed their recruitment specialists to track the development of Mendoza for some time.
The interest is driven by manager Mikel Arteta, who is said to admire the midfielder’s creative qualities and playing style, which has drawn comparisons to Barcelona’s highly-rated playmaker, Pedri.
Mendoza currently plays for Elche, who recently secured promotion back to the Spanish top flight, and he has already proven himself capable of adapting to the demands of elite competition.
The reports suggest that while a summer transfer remains more likely for the young player, a move in the upcoming January window cannot be entirely ruled out.
However, the Gunners face fierce competition. Several of Europe’s top clubs, including Real Madrid, Manchester City, and Juventus, are also said to be monitoring the situation.
A key factor in any potential transfer is Mendoza’s release clause, which is understood to be set at a relatively accessible figure of €20 million (£17.5 million).
Triggering this clause would make Mendoza Elche’s most expensive sale in history and would appeal to clubs seeking a high-potential talent at a manageable price point.
However, the Gunners face fierce competition. Several of Europe’s top clubs, including Real Madrid, Manchester City, and Juventus, are also said to be monitoring the situation.
A key factor in any potential transfer is Mendoza’s release clause, which is understood to be set at a relatively accessible figure of €20 million (£17.5 million).
Triggering this clause would make Mendoza Elche’s most expensive sale in history and would appeal to clubs seeking a high-potential talent at a manageable price point.
Who is Rodrigo Mendoza?
Mendoza is an emerging talent in Spanish football. Primarily a central midfielder, the 6ft-tall right-footed player is known for his technical prowess, creativity, and impressive ability to carry the ball forward.
His versatility is also a huge asset, as he can operate effectively in various roles, including on the left wing or behind the striker, offering tactical flexibility to any manager.
Mendoza has risen quickly through the ranks at Elche, making his senior debut in November 2022. He has gone on to make over 50 senior appearances for the club, helping them secure promotion last term.
In the current 2025/2026 season in La Liga, the 20-year-old has already registered two goals across ten appearances in all competitions, underscoring his growing attacking threat.
Internationally, Mendoza is a highly regarded member of the Spanish youth setup, having represented his country at the U17, U18, U19, U20, and U21 levels.
His statistics highlight a player with excellent ball control, boasting high percentiles in successful take-ons and progressive carries, demonstrating the dynamic profile that has caught the eye of Arteta as he looks to solidify Arsenal’s status as a Premier League powerhouse for years to come.