Real Madrid are keeping a close eye on Rodri’s situation at Manchester City and reports suggest the Spanish giants could make a move if uncertainty over the midfielder’s contract persists. While an immediate January move appears unlikely, the foundations are being laid after head coach Xabi Alonso indicated the club will continue to be alert to opportunities in the market.
According to MARCA, Real Madrid are exploring the possibility of signing Rodri next summer. The Ballon d’Or-winning midfielder is under contract at Manchester City until 2027, but if he decides not to renew, City may be forced to consider selling to avoid losing one of their most influential players for nothing later on.
Ahead of Madrid’s clash with Real Betis, Alonso played down the likelihood of major winter business, insisting he is largely happy with the current squad. However, he also acknowledged that the club will assess the market if the right opportunity presents itself, reinforcing the sense that Real Madrid are planning methodically rather than rushing into January deals.
Rodri has been a cornerstone of City’s dominance since his arrival in 2019, making 273 appearances, scoring 26 goals and providing 32 assists. Despite injury in recent months, the 29-year-old returned to action earlier this week against Sunderland and looked immediately comfortable, underlining his continued quality. Worth around €75 million, he remains one of the most complete midfielders in world football.
However, any potential move would carry a striking layer of irony. Rodri’s Ballon d’Or triumph came ahead of Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior, a result that angered Los Blancos and led to the club boycotting the Ballon d’Or ceremony for the past two years. In this context, the prospect of Rodri walking into the same dressing room as Vinicius would be an uncomfortable and symbolic shift, turning a moment of protest into an exercise in pragmatism.
In terms of squad planning, Real Madrid’s priorities extend beyond midfield. A centre-back is seen as the most pressing need, with David Alaba expected to leave and questions lingering over Antonio Rudiger’s future. However, Madrid also want to add a midfielder capable of controlling games while offering creativity, a profile that fits Rodri perfectly.
For Manchester City, Rodri remains indispensable. However, if contract talks do not progress, the Premier League champions may have no choice but to listen to offers. Should that moment come, Real Madrid appear ready to swoop in, potentially rebuilding their midfield under Alonso while creating one of football’s most ironic transfer stories.
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Issued by:
Debodinna Chakraborty
Published on:
January 4, 2026
