Arsenal's England Connection: Rice Leads Charm Offensive for Rogers

Arsenal are turning up the heat in the summer transfer window, and this time they’re using a secret weapon: the England dressing room. Declan Rice, the club’s record signing, is reportedly leading a ‘charm offensive’ on his Three Lions colleague Morgan Rogers, as the Gunners look to prize the winger away from Aston Villa.

It’s a classic case of using the national team bond to build club success. Rice and Rogers have shared camps under Gareth Southgate, and that rapport is now being weaponised by Mikel Arteta’s recruitment team.

The England link

The connection between Arsenal and England’s talent pool is nothing new. Bukayo Saka, Emile Smith Rowe, and Rice himself are all established Lions. Now, the club hopes that familiarity will help convince Rogers, 21, to swap Villa Park for the Emirates. Sources suggest Rice has been particularly vocal in selling the Arsenal project – the style of play, the Champions League football, and the chance to develop under Arteta.

Aston Villa, however, won’t let their prized asset go cheaply. Rogers only joined Villa from Middlesbrough in January 2024 for a reported fee rising to £16 million, and his performances under Unai Emery – including dribbling stats that rank near the top of the league – have already turned heads.

What Arsenal would be getting

Rogers is a versatile forward who can play across the front line, but he’s most effective cutting in from the left. At 6’2”, he combines physicality with quick feet – a rare blend that Arteta values in wide areas. His Champions League experience with Villa this season has also accelerated his development.

For Arsenal, adding depth behind Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard is a priority. Rogers would offer a long-term option, especially with the club eyeing multiple competitions next season.

What it means for the summer window

The ‘charm offensive’ tactic reflects a broader trend: Arsenal are increasingly leaning on player relationships to seal deals. It worked with Rice himself, who was persuaded by conversations with Saka and Aaron Ramsdale. Now, Rice is returning the favour.

But the financials will be tricky. Villa have no need to sell, and they value Rogers highly. Arsenal may need to offer a significant package – potentially exceeding £40 million – to tempt the Midlands club. Still, with Rice in his ear, Rogers might already be picturing himself in red and white.