By Adegboyega Adeleye
Real Madrid are preparing an offer worth up to £51 million (€60m) for Manchester City midfielder Rodri, according to Sky Sports, as the Spanish giants step up their pursuit of the World Cup-winning captain.
The report says Real Madrid have already made initial contact with City over the Spain international, who enhanced his reputation this summer by captaining his country to the FIFA World Cup title and winning the tournament’s Golden Ball award.
Rodri has just one year remaining on his current contract at the Etihad, with Real Madrid reportedly valuing the 30-year-old at between £43 million and £51 million (€50m-€60m).
Despite the growing speculation, Manchester City are unwilling to part with one of their most influential players. The Premier League champions are instead hoping to tie Rodri to a new long-term contract as they prepare for a new era under manager Enzo Maresca.
The midfielder recently underwent successful back surgery and is expected to miss the Community Shield as well as City’s opening Premier League fixture while he continues his recovery.
Sky Sports reports that Real Madrid view Rodri as a priority signing after already bringing Spain left-back Marc Cucurella to the Santiago Bernabéu this summer. Club president Florentino Pérez has reportedly been keen to increase the Spanish presence within the squad following criticism over the club’s lack of representation in the national team.
Meanwhile, City are also progressing in negotiations to sign Lille and Morocco midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, a move that could strengthen their midfield options as uncertainty over Rodri’s future continues.
Rodri has been widely regarded as one of the world’s finest midfielders, with his performances for both Manchester City and Spain making him one of the most sought-after players in European football. However, Sky Sports maintains that City have no intention of sanctioning his departure during the current transfer window.