Rodri to Real Madrid ? £100m Bid

July 24, 2025

Rodri to Real Madrid? £100m Bid in the Works for Ballon d’Or Winner

In what could become one of the most sensational transfers in recent memory, reports suggest that Real Madrid are preparing a staggering £100 million bid for Manchester City’s midfield maestro, Rodri. According to The Sun, there is mutual interest between the Spanish international and the European champions. Though a move this summer appears unlikely, the groundwork is being laid for a future Galáctico switch.

Who Is Rodri – The Ballon d’Or Winner Targeted by Real?

Rodri, full name Rodrigo Hernández Cascante, has emerged as one of the best defensive midfielders in world football over the past few seasons. His presence, intelligence, and consistency have made him indispensable to Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City.

In the 2022–23 season, Rodri played a pivotal role in City’s historic treble, culminating in a UEFA Champions League final where he scored the only goal against Inter Milan — a moment that immortalized him in City history. His dominant performances throughout the year earned him the Ballon d’Or, making him the first holding midfielder since Luka Modrić to win the prestigious award.

🇪🇸 Rodri’s Spanish Roots and His Admiration for Real Madrid

While Rodri is currently under contract with Manchester City until 2027, his Spanish roots and the allure of playing for Real Madrid make this developing story more than just a transfer rumor. Born and raised in Madrid, Rodri began his youth career at Atlético Madrid before moving to Villarreal and later returning to Atleti. In 2019, Manchester City activated his release clause for £62.8 million — a bargain in hindsight.

Despite his deep connection to Atlético, it’s believed that Rodri grew up admiring Real Madrid. According to close sources, the midfielder would not rule out a move to the Santiago Bernabéu, especially if it allows him to return home and compete in La Liga with Spain’s most decorated club.

🧠 Rodri to Real Madrid – Why Rodri Fits Real Madrid’s Midfield Philosophy

Real Madrid has long been known for producing world-class midfields. From the legendary trio of Casemiro, Modrić, and Kroos to the emerging talents of Jude Bellingham, Eduardo Camavinga, and Aurélien Tchouaméni, the club has a strong identity built around technical excellence and tactical versatility.

The potential arrival of Rodri to Real Madrid would reinforce that identity. He would act as a natural successor to the now-departed Casemiro and the aging Modrić, bringing both leadership and balance to the midfield. His ability to control the tempo, dictate transitions, and shield the backline could help Real Madrid dominate Europe for years to come.

💬 Mutual Interest Confirmed: Real Madrid and Rodri Open to Talks

Insiders have confirmed that there is genuine mutual interest between Rodri and Real Madrid. While Manchester City is understandably reluctant to let go of their midfield lynchpin, there is an acknowledgment that the player could be tempted by a move home — especially if the timing and financial package are right.

Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez is said to be a huge admirer of Rodri, and is reportedly working behind the scenes to make this deal a reality, even if it means waiting a year or two.

🔒 Why a Summer 2025 Transfer Is More Likely

Despite the brewing interest, all signs indicate that Rodri to Real Madrid won’t happen in the current transfer window. Manchester City have no interest in selling, and Rodri himself is not pushing for an exit. With Euro 2024 now behind him, and with City’s sights on another Premier League and Champions League title, Rodri remains fully committed — for now.

However, things could change dramatically in 2025. Several factors could open the door:

Modrić’s expected retirement
Kroos’s recent departure
Guardiola possibly leaving City
Rodri’s desire to return to Spain before his peak years pass

If Real Madrid makes their intentions clear with a concrete offer, and Rodri signals a willingness to move, this deal could gain serious momentum in the next 12 months.

💰 The Financial Side of the Deal

Real Madrid is no stranger to big-money signings. The club recently broke the bank to sign Kylian Mbappé and Endrick, while also spending heavily on Jude Bellingham in 2023. A £100 million bid for Rodri would be in line with their strategy of acquiring world-class talent in their prime.

That said, City will not let Rodri go without a fight. Having him under contract until 2027 gives the English champions leverage. Unless Rodri expresses a desire to leave, City can either reject bids outright or demand a higher fee — possibly exceeding £120 million.

Still, Real Madrid has the financial muscle to make the deal happen. And with players like Luka Modrić, Nacho, and Kroos exiting or nearing the end of their careers, space is opening up in the wage structure.

⚽ What Rodri Could Bring to Real Madrid

If the deal does materialize, Rodri to Real Madrid would mark one of the most influential transfers of the decade. Here’s what he would offer:

Leadership: A calm, experienced figure in midfield who thrives under pressure.
Versatility: Comfortable as a single pivot or in a double pivot.
Composure: Rarely loses possession and always makes smart decisions.
Big-game mentality: Proven match-winner in Champions League and league deciders.
Tactical Intelligence: Excellent positioning, anticipation, and ability to read the game.

Rodri would serve as the ideal link between Real Madrid’s next generation and their winning tradition.

👀 What Fans and Pundits Are Saying

Fans are already buzzing on social media at the thought of Rodri wearing the iconic white jersey. Some are excited by the idea of a Bellingham–Rodri–Valverde midfield, while others are wary of destabilizing City’s dominance in Europe.

Pundits like Jamie Carragher and Guillem Balague have acknowledged that Rodri’s departure from City could signal a new era, both for the Premier League and La Liga. Carragher noted:

“Rodri is the best in his position. If Real Madrid pull this off, it could tilt the balance of power back toward Spain.”

📝 Final Thoughts – A Dream Move in the Making?

While Rodri to Real Madrid won’t happen this summer, there’s a growing sense that it could be a matter of “when,” not “if.” With both parties open to a future deal, and Real Madrid’s midfield entering a new era, it’s only logical for the club to pursue a world-class anchor like Rodri.

If this deal goes through in 2025 or 2026, it may be remembered as one of the defining transfers of the post-Mbappé generation at Real Madrid. For now, fans will have to watch closely as rumors grow and negotiations evolve.

One thing is certain: Rodri to Real Madrid would shake the football world.

Rodri to Real Madrid