Man City to launch huge Rodrygo bid?! Real Madrid star eyed as Pep Guardiola aims to replace departing Jack Grealish amid Tottenham's Savinho move

According to a report from transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, City are considering a move for Rodrygo. The Premier League giants are reportedly eyeing the Brazilian as a 'dream target' for Pep Guardiola, with a potential deal valued at around €100 million (£87m/$109m). This comes as City are in the process of offloading several players, including Grealish, who has been linked with a loan move to Everton, and Savinho, who has also been the subject of a Tottenham bid. Rodrygo's situation at Real Madrid has been under scrutiny, with reports from AS suggesting he felt undervalued last season and has not been a regular starter under new manager Xabi Alonso during the Club World Cup and pre-season.

City's interest in Rodrygo is driven by a need to refresh their attacking options and balance the squad. Grealish, who became the most expensive British player ever when he joined City in 2021, has struggled to cement a regular starting place and is seeking more game time ahead of the World Cup. Similarly, Savinho, despite a strong first season at the Etihad, could also depart to reduce the number of non-homegrown players. Rodrygo, a versatile forward who can play across the front line, would offer a proven option with Champions League-winning experience. He has registered six goals and six assists in 30 league appearances for Real Madrid in the 2024-25 season.

Rodrygo has played a key role in two Champions League triumphs and three La Liga titles with Real Madrid since joining in 2019. 

Rodrygo's future hinges on his desire to leave Madrid. While he has been linked with other top clubs, including Arsenal and Liverpool, the report from Romano indicates that Real Madrid would be willing to sell if the player pushes for a move. Rodrygo is said to be keen on proving himself to Alonso and reclaiming a starting spot, but his limited game time and major competition with the likes of Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Jr recently could force a decision. A potential move to City would see him compete for a place in one of the Premier League's most competitive squads under Guardiola as the new season begins.