Real Madrid are reportedly gearing up for an ambitious bid to sign Rodri from Manchester City in next summer’s transfer window, following claims that the Spanish midfielder is no closer to agreeing a new contract with the Premier League champions.
The reigning European champions have long admired the 28-year-old Spaniard, who has cemented his status as one of the finest defensive midfielders in Europe since his arrival at City in 2019. Rodri’s current contract runs until the summer of 2027, but that hasn’t discouraged Los Blancos, who are already laying the groundwork to secure his signature.
According to a report from AS, Real Madrid have made Rodri a priority target for next summer, viewing him as the perfect long-term replacement for Toni Kroos, who retired following Germany’s exit from Euro 2024. Kroos was the heartbeat of Madrid’s midfield for nearly a decade, and the club is keen to find a successor capable of anchoring the team for years to come.
The report also claims that Real Madrid are confident of finalizing a deal for Bayern Munich left-back Alphonso Davies within the next year, further signaling their intent to bolster their squad. However, the pursuit of Rodri will likely prove far more challenging, as Pep Guardiola and Manchester City are determined to keep hold of one of their most vital players.
Despite City’s efforts to tie Rodri down to a new, improved contract, it is believed that negotiations have stalled. The report suggests that if Rodri were to leave the Etihad, Real Madrid would be the “only club” he’d consider joining. A return to Madrid holds a personal appeal for the Spaniard, who spent a year playing for Atletico Madrid before his move to City. However, under Guardiola, he has transformed into an elite-level midfielder, becoming a cornerstone of City’s domestic and European success.
Rodri’s extraordinary performances throughout the 2023/24 season, both at the club and international level, have earned him a nomination for the 2024 Ballon d’Or. His contributions were instrumental in helping City capture another Premier League title and claim the Champions League, while also playing a pivotal role in Spain’s Euro 2024 victory.
Speaking about Rodri’s Ballon d’Or nomination, Guardiola praised his star midfielder, saying: “We would be delighted – he deserves it. But maybe another one deserves it too. The people will vote.” Guardiola went on to add, “Rodri has had not just one good season, but many. Last season was incredible, with the Premier League and winning the Euros with Spain. But there are other players who had a good season too.”
While the prospect of a blockbuster move to the Santiago Bernabeu may be tempting for Rodri, it remains to be seen if Real Madrid can convince both the player and Manchester City to part ways next summer. One thing is clear, though: Real Madrid are prepared to go all-in to bring the Spanish maestro back to his home country.
