Manchester City midfielder Rodri is reportedly eager to join Real Madrid this summer following the anticipated departure of manager Pep Guardiola, according to reports in the Spanish media. Marca, a publication closely aligned with Real Madrid, stated that the 29-year-old Spain international is ‘eager to come’ to the Estadio Bernabeu.
The potential move comes as Jose Mourinho prepares to take the reins at Real Madrid, and the Portuguese manager is believed to be in agreement with club president Florentino Perez regarding the pursuit of Rodri. The club views Rodri as a dream signing, particularly after a season where they are set to finish without a major trophy.
Rodri’s representatives have already engaged in preliminary discussions with Manchester City regarding his future, and the impending exit of Guardiola appears to have opened the door for a possible transfer. The midfielder’s career has flourished under Guardiola at City, becoming a pivotal figure in their midfield and a key component of their recent successes. He has established himself as one of the Premier League’s top defensive midfielders.
However, securing Rodri’s signature will not be straightforward. Manchester City’s director of football, Hugo Viana, is actively working to convince Rodri to sign a new contract and remain at the Etihad Stadium, making what has been described as an ‘aggressive push’ to retain the player. While Rodri’s desire to join Real Madrid would undoubtedly facilitate negotiations, City are unlikely to willingly allow one of their most important players to leave easily, with both Rodri and Guardiola under contract until 2027.
Despite the challenges, the prospect of playing under Mourinho and joining a club with Real Madrid’s stature is clearly appealing to Rodri. Should the transfer materialize, it would significantly bolster Real Madrid’s midfield and provide a strong foundation for Mourinho’s project. It could also prompt City to seek a high-profile replacement for the influential Spaniard.
