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Arsenal's potential signing Morgan Rogers has spoken publicly about the increasing speculation surrounding his future, stating that he believes he and Jude Bellingham can easily share the pitch for England at the upcoming 2026 World Cup.

Aston Villa’s rising star Morgan Rogers addressed the ongoing transfer buzz linking him with a big-money switch to Arsenal. The 23-year-old, currently training with the England squad in Florida ahead of the 2026 World Cup, emphasised that despite the constant talk, his main focus is on helping the national team chase global success and proving he can perform alongside Bellingham.

Rogers on Arsenal’s interest and the surrounding noise

The Aston Villa midfielder has found himself at the centre of media attention as Premier League champions Arsenal intensify their pursuit. After a standout campaign in which Rogers recorded 14 goals and 12 assists across all competitions, reports suggest Mikel Arteta views him as a marquee addition to strengthen Arsenal’s attack for the upcoming title defence.

Speaking from England’s training camp in West Palm Beach, Rogers admitted that being part of an £80 million transfer saga can be overwhelming. “I think the first time it ever happened it was,” he told Netflix’s The Rest is Football. “You’re in an uncomfortable position where you don’t realise how much attention you’re getting. But as you grow older and gain experience, you learn that it’s part of the game and 95 per cent of it is just noise. Of course, you hear it—you can’t avoid that—but you have to take it in a positive way, stay focused, and keep playing your game.”

England’s tactical challenge in the number 10 position

Rogers’ emergence has given England manager Thomas Tuchel a selection dilemma, particularly regarding his role compared to Bellingham in the creative midfield area. While some analysts have debated whether Rogers should start ahead of the Real Madrid star, Micah Richards has described Bellingham as a “genuine superstar” who should be an automatic starter. Rogers, however, believes both can coexist in the same lineup.

“I think we can definitely play together,” Rogers said confidently. “I’d love that. I want to play with England’s best players, and he’s right at the top of that list. He’s someone I’ve admired since I was very young, and that hasn’t changed.”

Arteta’s pursuit of top-tier talent

Although Rogers remains Arsenal’s number-one target, reports indicate that the club is also monitoring alternatives in case Unai Emery refuses to let him leave Villa Park. Nottingham Forest captain Morgan Gibbs-White is believed to be on Arsenal’s shortlist as a backup option. Gibbs-White had an impressive season but did not make Tuchel’s World Cup squad, which surprised many observers.

Aston Villa are expected to demand more than £80 million for Rogers, reflecting his status as the 2024-25 PFA Young Player of the Year and his outstanding performance in Villa’s Europa League final win over Freiburg. With a contract lasting until 2031, the club is in a strong position to negotiate.

A rapid rise to the top

Rogers’ journey from Championship loanee to international star has been swift and remarkable. Only a few seasons ago, he was on loan at Bournemouth while his parent club Manchester City observed his progress. Now, he stands among Europe’s most sought-after young talents, with Paris Saint-Germain also reportedly keeping tabs on him as he prepares for the biggest tournament of his career.

“It’s crazy to see how far things can go in such a short time,” Rogers reflected. “You’d be naive in football if you didn’t realise how quickly things can change. That can be both good and bad. One moment you’re at the top, and the next, you can be forgotten. That’s the tough reality of this game.” For now, though, Rogers seems very far from being forgotten as he looks to secure his spot in England’s starting eleven—either alongside Bellingham or in his place.