Manchester City are reportedly braced for a sensational late attempt from Barcelona to sign midfield linchpin Rodri before the summer transfer window slams shut. The La Liga champions are ready to challenge rivals Real Madrid for the Spanish international, who is said to be questioning a potential move to the Bernabeu.
Manchester City are already entering the unknown as they adjust to life after Pep Guardiola, but that already-gruelling transition could be about to get a whole lot tougher. That is because talismanic midfielder Rodri could be on his way to Real Madrid, who are confident of pulling off what would be a blockbuster deal for Spain's World Cup-winning captain.
Manchester City have confirmed that midfielder Rodri has undergone successful minor surgery to address an ongoing back issue following Spain's World Cup triumph. The club have also stated that Rodri is only facing a "short" recovery process, allaying any fears he could be sidelined for a significant period.
Paris Saint-Germain have thrown a surprise twist into the Rodri transfer saga, reportedly making contact with Manchester City to explore a move for the Spain international, just as Real Madrid appeared to be closing in on a deal for the World Cup-winning midfielder.
Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca has brushed off transfer speculation linking Rodri with Real Madrid, insisting every manager in world football wants the midfielder. The Spain captain is set to undergo surgery on a back issue following his World Cup triumph, leaving his future unresolved as he enters the final year of his contract at the Etihad.
Real Madrid have reportedly contacted Manchester City to deny making an approach for Rodri following sensational reports of a pre-transfer agreement. The Spanish giants are fuming over claims that a deal has been struck for the World Cup Golden Ball winner, insisting that his style does not align with Jose Mourinho's current tactical setup.
Real Madrid icon Luis Figo believes Kylian Mbappe remains a primary contender for the 2026 Ballon d’Or following a stellar World Cup campaign. The former Portugal international also addressed the persistent rumours linking Manchester City’s midfield anchor Rodri with a high-profile move to the Santiago Bernabeu.
With the World Cup over and pre-season friendlies beginning in earnest over the next week, it feels like the new club season is hurtling towards us at a rather alarming rate. With that in mind, managers are getting increasingly twitchy when it comes to transfers, with coaches around Europe keen to know which players they will and won't be able to call upon over the coming weeks and months.
Manchester City midfielder Rodri is set to undergo surgery on a back injury, casting significant doubt over his availability for the start of the 2026-27 campaign. The Spain captain returned from international duty after leading his country to World Cup glory, but the Premier League giants now face an extended period without their key anchor.
