TalkSPORT understands Manchester City star Rodri is considered Real Madrid’s top target this summer.
Los Blancos are preparing for another busy transfer window at the Bernabeu and are aiming to bring Rodri back to his home country.
4
The LaLiga giants have often picked out Premier League clubs in search of their best players over the years and this summer looks set to be no different.
The Pitch Prospect understands two midfielders are on their radar – City’s Rodri and Newcastle’s Sandro Tonali.
Both men face an uncertain future with Rodri tied to the Etihad until 2027.
And despite Tonali not losing his contract at St James’ Park until 2028, he has been heavily linked with a move away from Tyneside.
talKSPORT reported last month how the 25-year-old would be happy to return to his native Italy – just three years after leaving AC Milan.
He is valued at between £80m and £100m by the Magpies and is also on Arsenal’s radar.
It is understood Madrid’s scouts were in attendance to watch City’s FA Cup win over Newcastle on Saturday ahead of Wednesday night’s Champions League game.
While Rodri didn’t appear in the match, they were able to see Tonali up close.
Fishing on rod
But it is four-time Premier League winner Rodri who is Real’s biggest target.
Rodri, born and raised in Madrid, spent six years in Atletico’s academy before returning to the Wanda Metropolitano after five years at Villarreal.
4
4
After just one season under Diego Simeone, City arrived in 2019 and activated his £62.6m release clause.
During his time in England he established himself as arguably the best defensive midfielder in the world, winning 11 major trophies at the Etihad.
He even starred as Spain won Euro 2024 – his performances saw him win the Ballon d’Or later that year.
He became the first Spaniard since Luis Suárez in 1960 to receive the prestigious individual award.
But since he suffered a thigh injury in Spain’s 2-1 win against England in the European Championship final two years ago, he has been plagued by setbacks again and again.
An ACL suffered against Arsenal in September 2024 ruled him out for 53 games for club and country.
4
And he has suffered two separate knee and hamstring injuries this season.
He has missed 18 games this season, limiting him to just 17 Premier League appearances.
Although he appeared in each of City’s 11 top-flight games in 2026, his return to action marked the start of the club’s title bid.