Real Madrid have serious concerns about potential move for Manchester City heavyweight | OneFootball

Real Madrid currently have one free spot in the 25-man squad permitted in La Liga, which explains why Franco Mastantuono was registered with the reserves.

The Spanish capital club have until 1 September, when the summer transfer window closes, to use that slot for a new signing.

Among the candidates is Rodri of Manchester City, seen as a potential replacement for Toni Kroos, with Luka Modric also having departed following last season’s Club World Cup.

The 2024 Ballon d’Or winner is hugely admired at the Santiago Bernabeu and links over a potential move have been doing the rounds for some time now.

Real Madrid have doubts about Rodri

However, according to Mundo Deportivo, what was initially viewed as an ideal signing has now become a source of debate within Real Madrid. The main issue is doubt over the suitability of moving for Rodri given his physical condition.

Rodri has effectively been out of action for a year. On 22 September last year he suffered an ACL injury against Arsenal, which required surgery on his right knee and ruled him out for the entire season.

Real Madrid like Rodri but have concerns. (Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images)

The midfielder only returned during the FIFA Club World Cup, playing 31 minutes against Wydad in June. But, he suffered another setback not long after and was unavailable for Manchester City’s opening Premier League match of the season against Wolves.

These ongoing physical and fitness issues have cooled the early excitement in Real Madrid about a potential move for Rodri.

Furthermore, the reported €100 million fee for the operation has also made the club cautious, regardless of whether Rodrygo might be included in a potential deal with the Premier League giants.

On top of this, Rodri turned 29 in June. As he approaches 30, Real Madrid’s policy is usually to renew players year by year due to the greater risk of injury. Given the cost, age, and fitness concerns, only a miracle would push the club to take on such a high-risk transfer.

The situation could be reassessed next summer depending on how Rodri’s season develops. If he does not renew with Manchester City and regains full fitness, talks could resume, as he could be available for a lower price for he would be entering the final year of his contract.