Real Madrid and Barcelona are reportedly eyeing Manchester City’s Rodri after his impressive World Cup performance. Will City secure a new contract for the midf
Real Madrid are reportedly working on a deal to sign Manchester City midfielder Rodri. Despite previous indications that Rodri was not part of their plans, Madrid’s stance has changed following his performance at the World Cup. City, however, are hopeful that Rodri will sign a new contract.
Rodri, who is 30 years old, has drawn interest from several major clubs. His contract with City runs until 2027, and he has expressed a desire to return to his home country during his playing career, specifically mentioning the appeal of representing Real Madrid. He previously stated that having played for Atletico Madrid would not prevent him from playing for Real Madrid.
Interest from Spanish Giants
Barcelona have also reportedly enquired about the possibility of signing Rodri during the current transfer window. This interest comes as Barcelona considers signing a top-class midfielder, particularly following an injury to Frenkie de Jong. Rodri’s chemistry with his Barcelona teammates in the Spain setup has also been noted as a factor.
For Real Madrid, the potential arrival of Rodri is seen as significant. Club president Florentino Perez is reportedly targeting Rodri to reinforce the midfield. Although the club is not typically keen to invest heavily in players approaching the age of 30, Rodri’s recent performances have reportedly eased concerns about his condition.
Rodri joined City from Atletico Madrid in 2019. During his time at City, he has made 298 appearances, scoring 28 goals and providing 32 assists. He has been part of teams that won four Premier League titles, two FA Cups, three League Cups, and the Champions League in 2023, where he scored the winning goal in the final.
City’s Midfield Situation
City are reportedly bracing for a bid from Real Madrid for the midfielder. Manager Enzo Maresca addressed the speculation, stating that it is normal for top players, especially after a successful World Cup, to attract interest. Maresca added that Rodri is scheduled for surgery on a back issue and will need time to recover before returning to the team.
City have already strengthened their midfield this summer with the signing of Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest. They are also reportedly pursuing Ayyoub Bouaddi from Lille. The potential departure of Rodri would follow the exits of John Stones and Bernardo Silva, with Silva also moving to Real Madrid.
In other transfer news, Leeds United are reportedly set to agree a deal to sign James Trafford from Manchester City. Manchester United are in advanced talks to send Joshua Zirkzee on a season-long loan to Juventus, with an option to buy. Paris St-Germain are interested in Parma’s Zion Suzuki, while Crystal Palace have reached an agreement on personal terms with Raphael Le Guen.
Additionally, Ibrahim Mbaye of Paris St-Germain has reportedly been offered to both Liverpool and Manchester City. Real Madrid will hold further talks with Vinicius Jr’s representatives regarding a new long-term contract, amid interest from Arsenal. Real Madrid have also made a second offer for Yan Diomande, but further discussions are needed with RB Leipzig.
Sevilla are reportedly willing to sell Ruben Vargas, with Brighton, Newcastle, and Aston Villa among the interested clubs. Sunderland have agreed personal terms with Dayann Methalie. Finally, Ipswich Town are reportedly interested in Fulham’s Sasa Lukic this summer.
Source: bbc.com
