Manchester City midfielder Rodri has once again been linked with a sensational summer transfer to Real Madrid, but this time amid internal division at the Santiago Bernabéu. Spanish press reports reveal that several first-team players view the Euro winner as the missing piece to perfect their midfield, while the board does not share the same enthusiasm and remains committed to its own transfer strategy.
Rodri is under contract with Manchester City until the summer of 2027, meaning next season could be his last under contract if no renewal agreement is reached. Furthermore, Pep Guardiola’s departure from the Premier League champions has reignited speculation surrounding the Spanish midfielder’s future, as he is yet to make a final decision on whether to stay or embark on a new challenge.
According to Spanish journalist Sergi Valentin, a group of Real Madrid players have informed management of their strong conviction that signing Rodri would restore the midfield balance missed last season, specifically pointing to his elite tempo control and press-resistance.
Despite player pressure, the club’s board is reluctant to open formal negotiations. Management believes Rodri’s age and the high financial demands of the deal do not align with their current recruitment policy, which prioritizes investing in younger talents for the future.
The report adds that Rodri is open to the idea of joining Los Blancos, viewing it as a prime opportunity to return to Spain after highly successful years in Manchester. However, the player is reportedly surprised by Real Madrid’s apparent lack of interest, despite their clear tactical need for a world-class holding midfielder.
While the debate continues behind the scenes at the Bernabéu, a move seems unlikely, especially since club president Florentino Perez prefers alternative profiles if he is forced to recruit a new midfielder.
Real Madrid have already significantly strengthened their squad in the summer of 2026 with several high-profile signings, including Denzel Dumfries to reinforce the right-back position, center-back Ibrahima Konaté, left-back Marc Cucurella, and former Manchester City star Bernardo Silva. These moves are part of the club’s long-term plan to rejuvenate the squad while maintaining a balance between world-class experience and elite young talents.
