Bournemouth announced the signing of 22-year-old forward Alvaro Rodriguez from Spanish club Elche on a long-term five-year contract on July 14, 2026 [1, 2]. The transfer fee is reported to be up to £25.7 million [3].
Rodriguez scored seven goals and provided five assists in 34 La Liga appearances last season for Elche [3, 1, 2]. He previously made 10 appearances for Real Madrid’s first team under manager Carlo Ancelotti in 2023 [1, 2]. Before joining Elche in summer 2025, Rodriguez spent time on loan at Getafe after leaving Real Madrid [3, 1, 2]. Real Madrid will receive 50% of any future transfer fee from Rodriguez’s sale [3].
The forward is expected to add physical presence, competition, and depth to Bournemouth’s attacking line alongside striker Evanilson [3]. Rodriguez said, “When my agent told me Bournemouth were interested, I couldn't believe it” and called it “a great privilege to be here” while expressing excitement about playing in the Premier League. He added, “Everything I've experienced so far has prepared me for this next chapter, and now I want to keep improving and show what I can do” [3, 1, 2].
Bournemouth clarified that Rodriguez is not being signed as a replacement for Junior Kroupi, who is linked with a move away. Instead, they are looking to sell striker Enes Unal [3].
The club will begin their Premier League campaign on August 23 against Manchester City [1, 2]. Rodriguez is expected to be available to boost Bournemouth’s squad ahead of that match.
