Manchester City will hope to keep alive their slim Premier League title hopes when they face rivals Manchester United on Saturday.
Pep Guardiola’s side have drawn three consecutive matches in the league and now sit six points behind leaders Arsenal, with just 17 matches remaining.
The Citizens did take a huge step towards reaching the Carabao Cup final on Tuesday, as they beat holders Newcastle United 2-0 in the first leg of their semi-final at St. James’ Park.
Now, it has emerged that one of City’s most important players is attracting interest from one of the biggest clubs in the world.
As per Football Insider, Spanish giants Real Madrid are hoping to sign City midfielder Rodri during this summer’s transfer window.
The 29-year-old joined City from Real’s fierce rivals, Atletico Madrid, back in 2019 and has since built a reputation as one of the best central midfielders in world football.
Rodri is a target for Real Madrid (Photo: Every Second Media/Alamy)
He has made more than 270 appearances for the Citizens across all competitions and won the Ballon d’Or in 2024, however so far this term he has played just 13 times for Guardiola’s side.
The Spain international has struggled with injuries during his time at The Etihad, though, particularly over the past 18 months having suffered ligament damage in his knee back in September 2024.
It is claimed that Real have identified the midfielder as a prime target as they look to recruit in midfield, however City are keen to extend the player’s contract beyond its current expiry at the end of the 2026/27 campaign.
City are said to be keen to agree a new contract with Rodri that would keep the midfielder at The Etihad beyond the end of next season, but Real could attempt to lure the player back to the Spanish capital six-and-a-half years after his move to Manchester.