Rodri
Madrid, Spain – October 21, 2025: Champions League match between Villarreal FC and Manchester City played in Villarreal. Rodrigo Hernandez wins the Ballon d’Or. Tribute to Rodrigo at La Ceramica.
Real Madrid are looking to sign Manchester City star Rodri in the summer.
That’s at least what Spanish journalist Ramón Álvarez de Mon is reporting. He took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to cover Real Madrid’s interest in the Manchester City player.
Rodri suffered a serious injury in September 2024, a month before winning the Ballon d’Or. He beat Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior for the prestigious individual award two years ago.
On February 11th, Sport Witness relayed Spanish claims that “something broke” between Real Madrid and Rodri, after he won the Ballon d’Or. Therefore, the La Liga giants didn’t pursue him.
A day later, Rodri’s father said he “doesn’t know anything” when asked about his son’s future at Manchester City. The defensive midfielder has less than 18 months left on his contract at the Etihad.
Last week, former Spain international Gaizka Mendieta insisted he doesn’t expect the player to leave due to his attachment to Pep Guardiola’s side.
U-turn on Manchester City star
While earlier claims ruled out a move for the 29-year-old, Álvarez de Mon now states Real Madrid are still keen.
According to the journalist, ‘Rodri is the midfielder that Real Madrid want’ next season.
The former Atlético Madrid man struggled with injuries in the first half of this season, since recovering from the serious setback he suffered in 2024. However, he has been fit this calendar year, making 14 appearances so far.
Álvarez de Mon reports the Spanish capital club will continue to keep an eye on his fitness until the World Cup.
This would mean Real Madrid are likely to make a final decision on buying after the World Cup. He further adds the Manchester City man would cost around €50m.
Strategy needs changing
Over the past few years, Real Madrid have decided against investing on players who are either close to or in their 30s. Los Blancos have been spending big on young players.
The last time the La Liga giants invested big was on Eden Hazard in 2019. The Belgian was 28 years at that time, and the transfer was something of a disaster.
Rodri will turn 30 years of age next June and Real Madrid will have to deviate from their plans to sign him.