Arsenal round-up: Vardy release clause activated, Rodriguez drops hint that he wants to join

Switzerland international Ricardo Rodriguez has hinted that he would be open to a move to Arsenal. The Wolfsburg left-back has impressed immensely in the German club’s European forays. The 23-year old reportedly has a £19m buy-out clause in his contract and has been quoted about the possibility of linking up with international teammate Granit Xhaka at Arsenal: “That would be exciting, yes, especially because the room arrangement at Arsenal would be fixed as well.” 

Arsenal will play a pre-season friendly against Manchester City on 7th August. The fixture will take place at the 44,000-capacity Ullevi Stadium in Gothenburg, Sweden. The Gunners will also take on Viking FK on 5th August in Stavanger, Norway. The Scandinavian friendlies will follow Arsenal’s trip to the United States in July where they will play a Major League Soccer All-Star squad and Chivas de Guadalajara.

    The Gunners have surpisingly activated the £20m release clause of Leicester City star Jamie Vardy. Wenger is ready to sign the England international, with a £45m contract offer (£120,000-per-week over four years) now being discussed. Furthermore, the Gunners hope to seal the transfer over the weekend. Vardy netted 24 league goals this season, while notching six assists.