Real Madrid has reportedly set their sights on Rodri as their top transfer target for the summer of 2025. This follows a summer in which Los Blancos made two major additions to their squad for the 2024/25 season.
First, they signed long-term target Kylian Mbappe on a free transfer from Paris Saint-Germain, and then they secured Brazilian starlet Endrick from Palmeiras after he turned 18.
Despite these high-profile signings, Madrid opted not to pursue any other significant transfers during the recent window, despite being heavily linked with Alphonso Davies from Bayern Munich.
Davies is entering the final year of his contract at Bayern, and while Madrid is reportedly confident about signing him for free in 2025, their main focus is on acquiring Rodri from Manchester City.
According to a report from AS, there is a consensus within the club about pursuing Rodri, with club president Florentino Perez, chief scout Juni Calafat, and manager Carlo Ancelotti all backing the move for the Spanish midfielder.
Real Madrid sees Rodri as a potential replacement for Toni Kroos, who has been a central figure in their midfield for many years.
While acknowledging the differences in playing style between Rodri and Kroos, Madrid is looking for alternatives given the difficulty of replacing the German playmaker directly.
Rodri is under contract with Manchester City until 2027, and while City has discussed extending his deal, no agreement has been reached.
Although Rodri is happy at Manchester City and open to becoming one of the Premier League’s top earners, he is also considering a possible return to Madrid.
This would bring him back not just to Spain, where he was born, but to the city where he once played for Atletico Madrid.
The report suggests that Rodri is weighing two options: either renewing his contract with City or pursuing a move to Real Madrid.
City may be willing to sell Rodri for the right price, likely in the nine-figure range. While Madrid is cautious about such a high valuation, they may be willing to meet it if they are serious about securing the midfielder’s services.
Madrid’s interest in Rodri is part of their long-term plan to strengthen their midfield. Although they have several promising young players, the eventual departures of veterans like Kroos make experienced additions essential.
Rodri’s ability to control the game’s tempo, combined with his defensive skills and passing range, makes him an appealing target for Real Madrid.
However, negotiating with Manchester City and meeting their financial demands will be a significant challenge in their pursuit of the Spanish international.
