Real Madrid have initiated transfer discussions with Manchester City midfielder Rodri, reversing their previous hesitancy, according to Fabrizio Romano. The move comes after a change of heart from club president Florentino Perez, influenced by manager Jose Mourinho’s desire to strengthen the midfield.
Rodri, whose current contract with Manchester City is set to expire in 2027, has expressed a desire to return to Spain. However, Perez initially had reservations about pursuing the transfer, reportedly due to the player being publicly linked with a rival candidate during the recent club presidential election. Enrique Riquelme, who challenged Perez for the presidency, had identified Rodri as a key target should he have won the election, causing Perez to delay a formal approach.
Romano detailed the shift in Perez’s stance, stating that influential figures within the Real Madrid board convinced the president that acquiring Rodri would be a significant improvement to the team. This internal pressure, combined with Rodri’s own eagerness to join the club, prompted Real Madrid to formally contact Manchester City within the last 12 hours.
The initial discussions are focused on the financial aspects of the deal, with Real Madrid indicating a willingness to exceed a reported valuation of €50 million. While the club is prepared to offer around €60 million, Manchester City are expected to demand a higher fee, potentially closer to Rodri’s Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) of €65.8 million, anticipating potential interest from other clubs. City are currently taking time to assess the market before responding to Real Madrid’s initial overtures.
Despite the ongoing negotiations between the clubs, Rodri’s preference for a move to Real Madrid could prove decisive. Romano emphasized that the player is prioritizing a transfer to the Spanish capital and would require a significantly compelling offer from another club to alter his intentions. The situation mirrors the recent acquisition of Bernardo Silva, where Mourinho’s intervention prompted Real Madrid to swiftly pursue and secure the player’s signature. The outcome of the negotiations will likely depend on Manchester City’s willingness to compromise on their asking price and the possibility of other clubs entering the bidding.
