Key Takeaways:
- Real Madrid initiated direct discussions with Manchester City regarding a potential transfer for Rodri
- Florentino Pérez has authorised an offer exceeding 50 million euros, following months of ruling out the move
- The Spanish club aim to finalise the deal before Rodri rejoins Manchester City for pre-season training
Real Madrid Begin Pursuit of Rodri
Real Madrid have taken concrete steps towards acquiring Manchester City midfielder Rodri, making their initial approach to the Premier League club’s hierarchy. This marks a notable change in direction from the Spanish club, who until recently had kept the door firmly closed to such a deal.
🚨⚪️ Real Madrid have approached Manchester City for Rodri for the first time.
Negotiations have started with verbal discussions between clubs.
Florentino Pérez has given approval to the deal after doors closed for months.
Real indicate they are ready to spend over €50m. pic.twitter.com/mf8HNldbcZ
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 29, 2026
Details Behind the Negotiations
Journalist Fabrizio Romano reported that discussions between Real Madrid and Manchester City are underway at an early verbal stage. Club president Florentino Pérez has granted approval to move forward after a period of hesitation concerning Rodri’s signature. The club are prepared to submit an offer worth more than 50 million euros in their efforts to secure the Spanish international’s services.
Strategic Importance and Timeline
Rodri’s position at the top of Real Madrid’s transfer agenda comes as a direct result of his outstanding performances for Spain, complemented by their recent World Cup success. The club’s leadership view him as an essential addition to their midfield, with strong abilities in match control and play organisation.
Although Rodri is currently tied to Manchester City until 2027, the prospect of a move back to Spain may influence his future plans. Real Madrid are pushing for a swift agreement, aiming to have the transfer finalised before Rodri’s scheduled return to City’s pre-season training, and hope to conclude negotiations with the English side within several days.
Rodri: The Centrepiece of Project Mourinho
The interest initially sparked within the halls of Valdebebas has evolved into a critical strategic target for the club. José Mourinho has expressed his support for the pursuit, viewing Rodri as pivotal to his new vision for the team. The current bid is intended to lay the groundwork for substantive negotiations with Manchester City, with hopes that Rodri’s arrival would headline Real Madrid’s summer recruitment efforts.
