Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has reportedly been left frustrated after Chelsea beat the Gunners to the signing of England international Morgan Rogers in one of the biggest transfer stories of the summer window.
Chelsea are understood to have reached an agreement with Aston Villa for a deal worth around £117 million, while the player has reportedly agreed personal terms on a long-term contract. The move comes despite Arsenal’s long-standing interest in the versatile attacker, who had emerged as one of Arteta’s top transfer priorities.
Rogers enjoyed an outstanding 2025/26 campaign with Aston Villa, establishing himself as one of the Premier League’s most exciting young stars. His impressive performances, which included crucial goals and assists in domestic and European competitions, attracted interest from several elite clubs, but Chelsea ultimately won the race for his signature.
According to reports, Arteta believes Arsenal missed out on the player because of delays in their negotiations. While the club had monitored Rogers for months and admired his ability to play across the front line, Chelsea acted quickly and completed the deal before Arsenal could submit a decisive offer.
The reported transfer has sparked disappointment among many Arsenal supporters, who viewed Rogers as an ideal addition to strengthen the club’s attacking options ahead of the new Premier League season.
Following the setback, reports suggest Arteta has urged Arsenal’s hierarchy to avoid making the same mistake with their remaining transfer targets. The Spaniard is said to be pushing for faster negotiations as the club continues its pursuit of Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimarães and Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola.
Guimarães has been on Arsenal’s radar for several transfer windows and is regarded as one of the Premier League’s finest midfielders. His leadership, defensive work rate and passing ability make him a player Arteta believes could elevate Arsenal’s midfield to another level.
Meanwhile, Bradley Barcola remains one of Europe’s most highly rated young wingers. The French international has impressed with his pace, dribbling ability and creativity, making him an attractive option as Arsenal look to strengthen their attacking depth.
Although neither transfer is expected to be straightforward, reports indicate that Arsenal are determined to move more aggressively in the market after losing out on Rogers. Club officials are reportedly aware that competition for elite players is intense, and any hesitation could allow rivals to step in once again.
Chelsea, on the other hand, see Rogers as a major statement signing. The Blues believe the England international has the quality to become one of the Premier League’s leading attackers for years to come and are confident he will play a key role in their long-term project.
For Arsenal, attention now shifts to the remainder of the transfer window. With expectations high after another strong campaign, supporters will be hoping the club responds quickly by securing its other priority targets and ensuring the disappointment of missing out on Morgan Rogers does not affect preparations for the 2026/27 season.
While the club has yet to comment publicly on the reports surrounding Arteta’s frustration, the coming weeks are expected to be crucial as Arsenal look to strengthen their squad before the new season begins.
