Early this week, Real Madrid initiated initial contact to acquire Spain captain Rodri. Club president Florentino Pérez recently authorized the preliminary negotiations. With his contract expiring next year, the Spanish veteran enters a tense negotiation phase. Proposed fees sit between €50 million and €60 million. And Real Madrid is expected to make an offer for Rodri before August camps begin.
With one year left on his English contract, the 30-year-old midfielder holds immense power. City executives desperately hope to sign the player to a long-term deal. But time runs out. They want to conclude the transaction before Rodri returns to Manchester. On Monday, he underwent successful surgery on his back. He’ll miss the Community Shield—along with the first fixture.
Florentino Pérez faced heavy criticism upon his re-election over a lack of Spanish talent. Madrid’s hierarchy is now completely united on the acquisition of Rodri. Earlier this summer, they signed Marc Cucurella. Rodri is exactly the player they are searching for.
Even José Mourinho backs the move. Reports indicate the former manager is involved in the Madrid project. Over in England, Manchester City rebuilds their squad around the tactical plans of Enzo Maresca. Former manager Pep Guardiola once called Rodri “the best midfielder in the world by far.” His ability to control the tempo completely defined City’s strategy. To resolve the tension, a transfer summit between representatives of both clubs is scheduled for July 30, 2026.
Real Madrid Is Expected to Make an Offer for Rodri as City Plans Contingencies
The potential departure of a veteran forces a market reaction. City holds a massive budget. Real Madrid, however, offers domestic appeal. English officials advance a deal to sign Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi.
During squad rebuilds, City management recently allowed players like Kevin De Bruyne, Bernardo Silva, and John Stones to leave. The strategy fits a historical pattern for the club. Rodri currently holds a market value of €55.00 million. Bouaddi gives Maresca a young foundation to build upon.