Real Madrid are reportedly preparing to launch a sensational £100 million ($135 million) bid to sign Manchester City’s midfield linchpin, Rodri, according to UK newspaper The Sun.
This move represents Real Madrid’s first concrete step in their pursuit of the player whom their new manager, Xabi Alonso, has identified as his absolute top priority. The Spanish international is seen as the perfect midfielder to build the new era at the Bernabéu around.
The nine-figure bid serves as a direct challenge to Manchester City’s attempts to keep their star player. It comes just days after it was reported that City had opened talks to extend Rodri’s contract, a defensive measure taken precisely to ward off the growing interest from the Spanish capital.
Manchester City consider Rodri to be arguably their most important and irreplaceable player and have shown no public desire to sell him. Therefore, they are widely expected to firmly reject this opening offer as they continue to work on a new deal to keep him at the Etihad.
However, Real Madrid’s willingness to table such a significant fee demonstrates their seriousness and immense financial muscle. They are signaling that they will not be easily deterred by City’s ongoing contract negotiations and are prepared to fight for their target.
A major transfer battle between two of world football’s superpowers has officially begun. Real Madrid are set to make their move, forcing Manchester City to defend their most prized asset in a saga that could define the summer transfer window.