Real Madrid target move for Man City midfielder Rodri

Jose Mourinho’s potential return to Real Madrid is already creating huge transfer headlines, and Rodri appears to be right at the centre of the conversation.

According to Football Insider, Mourinho is pushing for Real Madrid to make the Manchester City midfielder the first major signing of his second spell at the Bernabeu.

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Mourinho has not yet been officially announced as Real Madrid manager.

Reuters reported that he is still managing Benfica and has said his agent is in contact with Madrid, but there is no formal offer confirmed yet.

He also said he expects to make a decision on his future within the week.

Rodri is a long term target for Real Madrid

Rodri is an obvious target for Real Madrid. He is Spanish, experienced, technically elite and already proven as one of the best midfielders in world football.

He also won the 2024 Ballon d’Or, which only adds to his status. For Mourinho, a player like Rodri would be the perfect foundation piece.

If you are rebuilding Madrid’s midfield, you want someone who can bring control, leadership and tactical intelligence straight away.

The contract situation is what makes this story interesting. Rodri’s current Manchester City deal runs until 2027, meaning he is approaching the final year of his contract.

That naturally creates uncertainty. If he does not renew, City may have to think seriously about whether to sell now rather than risk a more difficult situation later.

Real Madrid are “doing everything” to sign him after Mourinho’s request, while also suggesting a potential fee could be around €60 million.

For a player of Rodri’s quality, that would be a bargain in normal circumstances. But the contract length, his age and his recent injury problems all affect the equation.