Real Madrid will limit their high-profile midfield signings to Portuguese star Bernardo Silva, with no intentions of pursuing Manchester City’s other midfield maestro, Rodri, during the current summer transfer window.
The Royal Club finalized the deal for Bernardo Silva after reaching a complete agreement on all personal terms. The breakthrough came following a decisive phone call between the Portuguese playmaker and Real Madrid’s newly appointed manager, Jose Mourinho.
Fabrizio Romano Confirms: No Tactical Need for the 2024 Ballon d’Or Winner
Renowned transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reported that Real Madrid dropped their interest in Rodri immediately after securing Silva. The club’s management and technical staff concluded that there is no tactical necessity to sign the Spanish midfielder, despite him winning the 2024 Ballon d’Or.
Mourinho Prefers Matheus Nunes Over Rodri
Mourinho himself is reportedly not a strong advocate for signing the 31-year-old Rodri. Should “The Special One” decide to further reinforce his midfield, he prefers alternative options—most notably West Ham United’s Portuguese midfielder, Matheus Nunes.
Club Politics: Why Florentino Perez Blocked the Rodri Transfer
Beyond tactical preferences, boardroom politics played a massive role in ending Real Madrid’s pursuit. Rodri had allegedly shown support—which was later denied—for rival candidate Enrique Riquelme during the recent Real Madrid presidential elections. This political stance prompted the re-elected president, Florentino Perez, to permanently close the door on the midfielder’s arrival at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Manchester City Propose Extension as Rodri Awaits Post-World Cup 2026 Decision
Rodri’s current contract with Manchester City expires at the end of next season. The Premier League champions are eager to retain his services and have already placed a lucrative contract renewal offer on the table.
The Spanish international has yet to make a final decision regarding his future. He is expected to officially decide whether to renew with City or seek a new challenge abroad after completing his campaign with Spain at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
