Real Madrid activates behind the scenes to refine its workforce before the start of the 2025-2026 season. And in the mind of Xabi Alonso, a need insistently emerges: that of a new regulator in the midfield. Several profiles have been studied, but a name insistently returns to the Valdebebas offices. A name which, however, is not without controversy with Madrid supporters …
Rodri, priority … but at 100 million maximum
According to the revelations of
Mundo DeportivoReal Madrid has rekindled its interest in Rodri. Manchester City midfielder, 2024 golden ball in front of Vinicius Jr, remains an obsession for sports management. But Florentino PĂ©rez set a limit: not one euro beyond 100 million. A firm ceiling, despite the two years remaining on the player's contract with City. The message is clear: it's now or never.
Rodri, who missed a good part of the past season because of a knee injury, has never hidden his attachment to City. But he also slipped, a few months ago, a sentence that resonates in Madrid: “When Real calls you, you have to listen. »» A call of the discreet foot, but sufficient to fuel speculation. Especially since Madrid sees no other environment worthy of such an investment.
A file that could drag until 2026
The problem is that Rodri was never popular in Madrid. His coronation in front of Vinicius in the Ballon d'Or left traces, and his celebration deemed provocative was not forgotten. This context could complicate an arrival, however validated sportingly by Xabi Alonso, who considers him as the ideal successor of Modric in the rotation.
Internally, we are aware that City has no interest in selling this summer. And if the player does not show a clear desire for departure, the operation may be postponed in the summer of 2026, one year before the end of his contract. For the moment, Madrid is expecting a sign. And Rodri has all the cards in hand.
