Arsenal transfer latest: Rodrygo 'suits' Gunners move as Mikel Arteta sums up his thoughts

Mikel Arteta offered his thoughts on one of his current stars

Arsenal's commanding position in the Premier League hasn't deterred Mikel Arteta from potentially dipping into the January transfer window to bolster his squad. The Gunners maintain a six-point advantage over Manchester City and Aston Villa after edging past Bournemouth 3-2.

The Spanish manager has received a timely boost with the recent comebacks of Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Magalhaes and Kai Havertz, though Arteta acknowledged that opportunities to enhance his squad's quality won't be overlooked.

He said in December: "We're going to be really aware of the situation and the timescale of certain players. We have to be actively looking, and then can we do it or not? That's a different story, but our job is to be always very prepared because something can happen."

While plans for potential new arrivals may still be taking shape, Arteta's views on one particular player's situation are crystal clear. We examine the latest transfer developments surrounding the table-toppers, including a club legend's perspective on Real Madrid forward Rodrygo's credentials.

Mikel Arteta confession

Declan Rice marked his return to Arsenal's starting XI with a stellar performance in their 3-2 victory over Bournemouth. The England international proved decisive with a double at the Vitality Stadium, having sat out the 4-1 triumph against Aston Villa through injury.

The Gunners' triumph, coupled with Manchester City's 1-1 stalemate against Chelsea, has propelled them to a six-point lead at the top of the Premier League. Arteta has lauded Rice's performances, particularly his improved goal-scoring prowess, asserting that the 26-year-old is among the world's elite in his position.

Rice's stellar displays have reportedly caught the eye of Real Madrid. When questioned if Rice could be considered among the world's best, Arteta responded: "For me, yes. For me, the ones that we have are the best. Declan is constantly adding things to his game.

"He's constantly adding things to his role in the team. I don't see where he can stop because he can still improve in a lot of areas, and he wants to improve. He's such a pivotal player for us."

Rodrygo analysis

Meanwhile, Brazilian winger Rodrygo has been linked with a move away from Real Madrid. Despite opting to stay in Spain last summer, he has found himself in a limited role under Xabi Alonso.

With only six starts in LaLiga and two goals in all competitions, rumours of a potential transfer to Arsenal have resurfaced. As Arteta expressed openness to new signings in the January window, Alan Shearer discussed Rodrygo's suitability for the Premier League, expressing confidence that the forward would thrive in England.

Speaking to Betfair last year, Alan Shearer expressed his belief that Rodrygo would thrive in English football, describing him as a top-quality player. Shearer revealed: "I think that Rodrygo would do very well in the Premier League - he's an excellent player.

"I heard one or two things that maybe last year, one or two English clubs were chasing him." The former England striker suggested that should the Brazilian become available, Premier League sides would be queuing up to secure his signature.

"If that is the case, that he's not happy at Real Madrid, then there won't be a shortage of offers for him to come and play in the Premier League. I think that there would be two or three clubs who would try and get him."