Arsenal boss Arteta pushes for Aston Villa's Rogers

Mikel Arteta has demanded Arsenal's transfer budget reflect ambition following the club's Premier League title win and Champions League near-miss. Aston Villa midfielder Morgan Rogers, 20, has emerged as a priority target as Arteta looks to bolster the squad ahead of next season. The Gunners finished second in their Champions League group behind Bayern Munich, missing the knockout stages by a single point. Arsenal secured their third Premier League title in 2024, ending an 18-year wait under Arteta's leadership.

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Rogers made 28 Premier League appearances for Aston Villa this season, scoring twice and providing three assists. Villa manager Unai Emery has indicated the club will not sell unless an 'exceptional' bid is received for the England youth international. Arsenal's opening bid for Rogers reportedly fell short, with Emery dismissing it as 'not serious'. Arteta's stance signals a potential standoff, with the board yet to approve a higher valuation for the midfielder. Rogers' contract at Villa runs until June 2026, with a release clause reported at £40m.