News Focus
- Real Madrid targeted Rodri to strengthen their midfield
- The player won the Ballon d’Or in 2024
- A serious knee injury delayed any transfer last summer
- Manchester City are now close to agreeing a contract extension
- Real Madrid have not made an official offer for the Spain international
Real Madrid face disappointment in their search for a new midfielder. Reports suggest Rodri Hernandez will stay at Manchester City rather than join the Spanish giants.
The European champions made Rodri their top priority to fill the gap left by Toni Kroos. The Ballon d’Or winner was available last summer, but a serious knee injury blocked any move. Now, the situation has changed.
Transfer expert Matteo Moretto claims City are nearing a new agreement with Rodri before the World Cup starts. The English club wish to keep the Spain international for at least another season. This development would close the door on a transfer to Madrid.
Real Madrid have reportedly cooled their interest in recent months. They have not spoken directly to City about a fee or submitted a formal proposal. Because of this, Rodri is now likely to extend his stay at the Etihad.
The Madrid club have struggled to control games since Kroos retired. Young stars like Eduardo Camavinga, Fede Valverde and Jude Bellingham have not solved the problem. Manager Carlo Ancelotti may now turn to alternatives such as Chelsea’s Enzo Fernandez, Liverpool’s Alexis Mac Allister or AZ Alkmaar’s Kees Smit.