Manchester City are preparing to make a major statement in the transfer market, with Real Madrid’s Rodrygo now a prime target for Pep Guardiola.
The plan is to inject fresh competition into the attack alongside Phil Foden and Erling Haaland, as part of Guardiola’s ongoing squad overhaul at the Etihad, which has already seen several departures.
Jack Grealish’s loan move to Everton has left a gap on the left wing and freed up the number 10 shirt. While City have already signed Lyon’s Rayan Cherki before the Club World Cup, Tottenham’s reported interest in Savinho could trigger another exit—potentially prompting Guardiola to push harder for Rodrygo.
The 24-year-old Brazilian is valued between £70 million and £100 million, a price tag that reflects how highly City rate him.
Former Everton CEO Keith Wyness has noted Guardiola’s ruthless approach to trimming the squad this summer, which could clear the path for Rodrygo’s arrival. Still, he remains an important figure for Real Madrid, recently scoring in a pre-season win over WSG Tyrol. His strong form—and a recent Instagram post celebrating his goal while hinting at uncertainty over his future—has only intensified speculation, especially after both Foden and Haaland liked the post.
If the £80 million deal materializes, it would be a significant coup for City. Rodrygo’s creativity, pace, and goal-scoring ability would add another layer of threat to Guardiola’s frontline, reinforcing their push to remain one of the most dominant sides in the Premier League.