Real Madrid could spice up the end of the summer transfer window with a move that’s both ambitious and spectacular. According to several Spanish media outlets, José Mourinho has identified Rodri as the top priority to strengthen the Madrid midfield. The Portuguese coach, recently appointed to lead the Merengues, wants to bring more solidity, balance, and experience to his midfield. In this context, the Manchester City midfielder seems like the ideal candidate to take charge of the central area and support the new generation of talent already in the squad.
Since his arrival, José Mourinho has been actively working with Real Madrid’s management to build a team capable of consistently reaching the top in Spain and on the European stage. While several areas could be reinforced, the coach believes the midfield remains the priority. Despite having talented players, he wants to add someone who can dictate the pace of the game, protect the defense, and provide natural leadership in big matches. Rodri ticks all those boxes.
The Madrid management is seriously considering the feasibility of this deal. The club’s leaders are ready to take action once the 2026 World Cup is over, a period during which discussions could really heat up. However, a transfer of this magnitude would require a significant financial investment, given Rodri’s status at Manchester City. Nevertheless, Real Madrid knows that signing a player of this caliber would immediately boost their national and European ambitions.
One of the factors fueling the optimism of the Spanish club is the position of the main interested party. According to the Iberian press, Rodri would not be opposed to a return to La Liga after several seasons in the Premier League. The Spanish midfielder would welcome the idea of joining Real Madrid to take on a new challenge in his career. This openness could facilitate negotiations between the parties, even if no agreement has been reached at this stage.
At 30, Rodri is still considered one of the best defensive midfielders in world football. His passing quality, game reading, tactical intelligence, and ability to manage difficult moments make him a highly sought-after player. Since joining Manchester City, he has established himself as a key piece in the Citizens’ game plan, regularly competing in the biggest tournaments and racking up titles with the English club.
🚨 𝐁𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐊𝐈𝐍𝐆: Real Madrid have changed their STANCE on Rodri.
José Mourinho wanted a different type of midfielder, and the club has now agreed to pursue the Man City player.
Real Madrid have informed Rodri that they will try to SIGN him after the World Cup, with Rodri… pic.twitter.com/QBAxCjNMCd
— Real Madrid Xtra (@RealMadridXtra) July 18, 2026
Under contract with Manchester City until June 2027, the Spanish international remains a crucial part of the squad. The English leaders are unlikely to make his departure easy and could demand a very high transfer fee to let him go. The Manchester club knows that replacing a player of this quality would be an extremely complicated task, given his significant influence in the team.
So far, no official offer has been made by Real Madrid. However, the situation seems to be closely monitored internally and could evolve quickly in the coming weeks. If José Mourinho can convince his management to go on the offensive and Rodri confirms his desire to return to Spain, the transfer window could witness one of its biggest sagas of the summer. One thing is certain: this potential transfer will be watched closely by all European football fans.
