Real Madrid are pursuing Manchester City midfielder Rodri Hernández, but a significant €20 million difference in valuation is currently stalling the transfer, according to reports from Es Radio’s Sergio Valentín. City are reportedly holding firm at a minimum of €80 million, while Madrid have offered €60 million for the Spanish international.
Negotiations are active, with Managing Madrid reporting that Madrid have moved beyond initial interest and are actively working to secure Rodri’s signature. The player himself is believed to be keen on a move, citing both personal and sporting motivations, though specific details remain undisclosed. Rodri’s current contract with Manchester City expires in the summer of 2027, leaving him entering the final year of his deal this coming season.
City’s high valuation reflects Rodri’s status as a World Cup winner and one of the world’s most complete defensive midfielders. Losing such a key player would necessitate a significant replacement signing. Madrid, however, are factoring in Rodri’s expiring contract when making their offer, believing it reduces their negotiating leverage and justifying a lower bid. They are hesitant to pay a premium for a player with limited remaining contract length.
The clubs have a limited timeframe to reach an agreement if Rodri is to join Real Madrid before the start of the 2026-27 season. Madrid previously denied contact with City regarding Rodri, but the emergence of specific figures regarding the asking price suggests that discussions have progressed beyond an exploratory stage. It’s important to note that the current information stems primarily from Sergio Valentín’s reporting, and the stated figures represent the current positions of both clubs.
Madrid’s potential leverage hinges on Rodri’s contract situation, and the possibility of the player running down his deal. They could potentially attempt to negotiate directly with Rodri to secure a pre-contract agreement for the following season. However, if City can persuade Rodri to sign a contract extension, Madrid’s opportunity would likely disappear. The report suggests that Rodri is determined to leave, which would negate the need for extension talks, and strengthen City’s negotiating position. Ultimately, the credibility of Rodri’s desire to move is crucial to the outcome of this transfer.
A €20 million gap is not insurmountable, but the key will be which club is willing to compromise first. Madrid may hope that time pressure will force City to lower their demands, while City could benefit from competition from other top clubs, potentially driving up Madrid’s offer. As of now, the situation remains at an impasse, with City seeking €80 million and Madrid offering €60 million.
