Manchester City are confident that Spain midfielder Rodri will sign a new contract despite expected interest from Real Madrid and other clubs, the Guardian reported on Monday.
Rodri, whose current deal expires in June 2027, has yet to sign the extension City offered him.
According to the report, several top European clubs are also in talks to bid for the 30-year-old after his exceptional display at the FIFA World Cup 2026.
The Spanish captain led La Roja to their second World Cup title and was awarded the Golden Ball as the tournament’s best player.
Real Madrid have reportedly changed their previous stance on signing Rodri following his World Cup heroics and are expected to make a bid. The midfielder has also previously expressed his openness to joining the Spanish club.
In March, Rodri expressed his desire to play for Real Madrid.
“Having played for Atlético [in 2018-19] before would not prevent me from playing for Real Madrid,” he said.
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“There are other players who have done that before. Maybe not direct transfers, but eventually. You can’t turn down one of the world’s best clubs.”
Amid the transfer speculation, Rodri is set to undergo surgery after returning to England from North America.
Real Madrid’s interest in Rodri could also bring interest from top European clubs. Barcelona are also observing the Manchester City midfielder after Frenkie de Jong sustained a knee injury. Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) are also long-time admirers of the Spain international.
It is worth mentioning that Madrid may need to sell players to fund a move for Rodri, particularly if they complete the signing of RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande for more than €100m (£85m).
Midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni is one player who could leave, despite reportedly agreeing a new contract that has yet to be announced. Manchester United remain interested in the France international, although they are believed to have reservations over Real Madrid’s asking price of around £70m.
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