Man City hatch 'anti-Real Madrid plan' as they bid to keep Ballon d'Or winner Rodri out of clutches of La Liga giants after he emerged as Carlo Ancelotti's top target

According to Cadena SER and journalist Anton Meana, City want to extend the midfielder's contract before the end of the season and are optimistic they can achieve this goal. The report adds that after his Ballon d'Or win, the Citizens feel they are still growing and this individual triumph is part of that process. But the 'shadow' of Real Madrid's interest does worry the defending Premier League champions.

The Spain international has been earmarked as a top target for Madrid in 2025 but with his contract running until 2027, he will not be available on the cheap. The 28-year-old, who is currently out for the season with an anterior cruciate ligament injury, is a huge player for Pep Guardiola's men, he has helped them win a hatful of trophies, and even though he is currently sidelined - City want to extend his deal as soon as possible.

Since Rodri signed for City from Atletico Madrid in 2019, the Spain international has won four Premier League titles, one FA Cup, two Carabao Cups, one Champions League, one UEFA Super Cup and one FIFA Club World Cup. He has also scored 26 goals and bagged 30 assists in 260 appearances.

While former Villarreal player Rodri continues his rehab, his City side travel to in-form Bournemouth on Saturday, looking to extend their lead at the top of the Premier League.