Real Madrid set three conditions for the pursuit of Manchester City midfield general | OneFootball

Real Madrid set three conditions for the pursuit of Manchester City midfield general | OneFootball

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Icon: Madrid Universal

Madrid Universal

·21 May 2026

Real Madrid set three conditions for the pursuit of Manchester City midfield general

Article image:Real Madrid set three conditions for the pursuit of Manchester City midfield general

As we move closer to the summer transfer window, Rodri is once again becoming a sought-after figure in the transfer market, with Real Madrid touted as a possible destination.

The departure of Pep Guardiola is likely to influence Rodri’s potential exit from the Etihad Stadium and it appears Real Madrid are more than prepared to pounce on an opportunity.


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That being said, Defensa Central reports Real Madrid have set three key conditions for the pursuit of Rodri.

Mourinho must be interested

The first condition Real Madrid have set is that incoming manager Jose Mourinho must be keen on signing Rodri.

Article image:Real Madrid set three conditions for the pursuit of Manchester City midfield general

Mourinho must green light the Rodri deal. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

The club want to sit down with the Portuguese tactician to discuss the Rodri move. If he gives the green light, the first condition will be met, though Real Madrid maintain that Mourinho won’t have the final say in everything.

Real Madrid won’t pay any price

Another critical condition is the asking price. Real Madrid ideally do not want the Rodri deal to exceed the €40-42 million mark and won’t pay any price for the former Ballon d’Or winner.

The club believe Rodri, at 30, is no longer in his peak years, and given the situation at Man City, with Guardiola leaving, and his contract expiring in 2027, Real Madrid are convinced his price shouldn’t exceed that level.

If Rodri pushes for an exit, it could help Real Madrid’s case further, as Man City will have to come to the negotiating table.

Rodri must perform in World Cup

Article image:Real Madrid set three conditions for the pursuit of Manchester City midfield general

All eyes will be on Rodri at the World Cup. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Real Madrid’s final condition is that Rodri must perform well in the upcoming FIFA World Cup. Spain are one of the favourites to win the tournament and as a former Ballon d’Or winner, he is expected to play a key role for La Roja.

If Rodri can’t impress at the biggest tournament in football, Real Madrid might not end up making a move for the veteran midfielder.

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