Spanish Giants Plot Mbappe-Style Move for Ballon d’Or Winner as Contract Tension Builds
Real Madrid are reportedly preparing a bold move to sign Manchester City midfielder Rodri, employing a transfer strategy reminiscent of their successful pursuit of Kylian Mbappe, according to Spanish outlet Marca.
The Spanish giants are monitoring the contract situation of the reigning Ballon d’Or winner, whose current deal at the Etihad has just 18 months remaining. The report suggests Madrid are ready to apply significant pressure, aiming to secure Rodri either on a free transfer in the summer of 2027 or in a cut-price deal at the end of this season if no new contract is signed.
“It is familiar territory for the club from the Spanish capital, where they often step in to apply pressure and reduce costs,” Marca states.
The 28-year-old Spanish international made his long-awaited return from a hamstring injury on New Year’s Day, coming off the bench in City’s goalless draw with Sunderland. Despite the result, his impact was immediate and profound.
“Rodri changed the game,” Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola said, heaping praise on his midfielder. “He proved in 45 minutes that he’s the best in his position… Hopefully he can stay fit because he makes us a better team.”
Guardiola’s comments hint at underlying concern over Rodri’s recent injury history, which includes an ACL injury in late 2024. However, Real Madrid appear undeterred by these fitness questions, viewing the contractual uncertainty as a prime opportunity to weaken a direct European rival and strengthen their own legendary midfield.
For City, losing their midfield orchestrator would be a devastating blow. The coming months will now involve a high-stakes duel: Manchester City’s efforts to tie down their most important player versus Real Madrid’s calculated campaign to lure him to the Bernabéu.
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