Real Madrid has reportedly identified Rodri as their primary transfer target for the summer of 2025. This news follows a summer transfer window during which Los Blancos made two significant additions to their squad ahead of the 2024/25 season.
First, they secured long-term target Kylian Mbappe on a free transfer from Paris Saint-Germain, and then they completed the acquisition of Brazilian wonderkid Endrick from Palmeiras, who joined the team after turning 18.
Despite these two high-profile signings, Real Madrid chose not to pursue further major reinforcements in the recent transfer window, even though they were strongly linked with a move for Alphonso Davies from Bayern Munich.
The Canadian star is entering the final 12 months of his contract at the Allianz Arena, and while Madrid is reportedly confident about bringing Davies in for free in 2025, their real focus is on securing what they consider a “big fish” signing: Rodri from Manchester City.
According to a report by AS, there is consensus within the club regarding the pursuit of Rodri, with club president Florentino Perez, chief scout Juni Calafat, and manager Carlo Ancelotti all in agreement about targeting the Spanish midfielder.
Real Madrid views Rodri as a potential successor to Toni Kroos, who has been a mainstay in their midfield for many years. While they acknowledge that Rodri and Kroos have different styles and characteristics, they also recognize that finding an exact replacement for the German playmaker would be nearly impossible, prompting them to explore alternative options.
Rodri is currently under contract with Manchester City until 2027. Although City has approached his representatives to discuss extending his deal, no new agreement has been reached yet.
While Rodri is content at the Etihad Stadium and open to becoming one of the Premier League’s highest-paid players, he remains mindful of a potential return to Madrid.
This would be a return not just to Spain, where he was born, but also to the Spanish capital, where he previously played for Atletico Madrid.
The report indicates that Rodri is considering two main options for his future: either signing a new long-term contract with Manchester City or advancing a move to Real Madrid.
City could be open to selling Rodri if the right offer comes in, but the asking price is likely to be a nine-figure sum. This is a valuation that Madrid is wary of but might consider if they are serious about securing Rodri’s services.
Madrid’s interest in Rodri comes as they look to reinforce their midfield for the long term. While they have several promising young players, the departure or eventual retirement of veterans like Kroos necessitates bringing in experienced talent.
Rodri’s ability to control the tempo of the game, combined with his defensive prowess and passing range, makes him an attractive option for the Spanish giants. However, negotiating with Manchester City and meeting their financial demands will be a challenging task for Real Madrid in their quest to bring Rodri back to La Liga.
