News Focus
- Pep Guardiola will leave Manchester City this summer after ten years in charge
- Real Madrid want to sign Rodri from the Premier League champions
- The Spain midfielder is open to returning to his home country
- New boss Jose Mourinho must approve the transfer before Madrid make a formal offer
- Manchester City have offered Rodri a new contract to keep him at the Etihad
Real Madrid are preparing to raid Manchester City following the shock news that Pep Guardiola will step down as manager. The Spanish giants believe the departure of the Catalan coach creates a perfect chance to sign key players from the English side.
Rodri Hernandez sits at the top of their shopping list. The 29-year-old midfielder has emerged as Madrid’s priority target to strengthen the centre of the pitch. Reports from Spain suggest the player would welcome a move back to his homeland.
Club officials are reportedly waiting for incoming manager Jose Mourinho to give his approval before they launch a formal bid. However, any deal for the defensive midfielder would cost a huge amount of money.
City are fighting hard to keep their star man. Although Rodri’s current deal ends next year, the club has tabled a new contract offer. They hope he will extend his stay at the Etihad Stadium rather than join the La Liga side.
The situation remains tense. Rodri was expected to decide on the new contract last week, but the delay is causing worry for City fans. The longer he waits, the more likely a transfer to Madrid becomes.
Madrid have also shown interest in other City stars in the past. Erling Haaland and Josko Gvardiol have both been linked with moves to the Bernabeu. Gvardiol has even offered himself to the club this month.