Manchester City's approach comes after months of speculation regarding Rodri's future, as his contract nears its end. According to reports, club chairman Khaldoon Al-Mubarak and Pep Guardiola have been negotiating a long-term contract extension for Rodri, positioning Etihad Stadium as his final destination.
At the same time, Real Madrid has identified Rodri as a high priority for their 2026-27 midfield revamp. The club sees him as the ideal anchor to complement their younger players and is willing to put City's "non-transferable" stance to the test if he delays signing a new contract.
City's stance is clear: if Rodri rejects the new offer, they will still demand a large fee this summer, most likely in the €100-130 million area, depending on market conditions.
Player in focus
Rodri has been at the heart of Manchester City's midfield since his €70 million move from Atletico Madrid in 2019. Over the last two seasons, he has averaged 93-94% pass accuracy in the Premier League and completed over 10,000 passes in all competitions.
He scored the game-winning goal in the Euro 2024 semi-finals and led Spain through crucial moments. In club football, his impact is even greater: City has won more than 75% of league games when he starts this season, compared to about 55% when he is absent due to injury or rotation.
Rodri, 29, is at the peak of his talents and remains one of Europe's most in-demand holding midfielders. Real Madrid appreciates his positional awareness, ball retention, and ability to defend while attacking.
What they said
Pep Guardiola recently underlined how crucial he is: "Rodri is the best in the world at his position." He gives us control, protection, and the confidence to assault. "We'll need him for years." Sky Sports Guardiola press conference.
Rodri realized the gravity of the issue. When asked about Real Madrid's interest, he told Spanish radio station Onda Cero, "You cannot turn down the best clubs in the world, but I also have to think about where I am right now and what is best for me and my family."
What’s next
Rodri now has control of the situation. He and his family are set to negotiate the new contract with City's management in the coming weeks, as the club ramps up pressure to avoid prolonged uncertainty.
Manchester City has a full Premier League schedule ahead of them, as well as a Champions League knockout round, so midfield stability is critical. Real Madrid will analyze their willingness to pay if City demands a record-breaking fee for his move.
Keep an eye on Rodri's body language and any subtle comments from both sides in the next games. In one way or another, his next move will change the power dynamic in Europe's two greatest leagues.