Rodri emerges as conditional Real Madrid target, with City stance and planning key | OneFootball

The growing view at Real Madrid is that the signing should be Rodri, whose World Cup win and MVP display suit a clear creative need.

According to El Periódico Mediterráneo, Madrid could act if conditions align, with José Mourinho keen and Florentino Pérez still to be convinced despite positive internal reports. Rodri has a renewal offer and is under contract at Manchester City until 2027.

Planning has shaped the stance, influenced by signing Bernardo Silva, who turns 32 in August. Tchouaméni’s deal to 2031 lifts his status, with the midfield centred on him and Bernardo. Bellingham is set higher, Camavinga is unresolved, and pre-season will define Thiago Pitarch.

Many still argue Rodri is the specialist Madrid have sought since Kroos retired, and that it should have been done before a World Cup that raised his value. A price of 70 million has been floated, though that looks hard to sustain given his 2027 contract.

Timing weighs on Pérez. Rodri would address immediate issues, and last season he was carefully managed before peaking during the World Cup. He wants to return to Spain and has not dismissed Madrid when asked publicly.

He is well placed for what could be the last major contract of his career. Madrid would need a significant outlay, while City will attempt to keep him, especially after Guardiola’s exit. Guardiola had forecast a peak around the 2026 World Cup and next season, and eight matches have eased doubts over his fit.

Source: El Periódico Mediterráneo