Real Madrid Target Man City’s Rodri as Toni Kroos Successor Amid Rodrygo Exit Talks

story written by okafor joseph
Madrid, July 22, 2025 – Real Madrid are eyeing Manchester City star Rodri as a potential long-term replacement for Toni Kroos, following the German midfielder’s retirement at the end of the 2024/25 season. The Spanish giants are reportedly planning a midfield rebuild and view Rodri as their ideal candidate to anchor the team for years to come.

According to Spanish outlet AS, Los Blancos have identified Rodri as their top midfield target and could pursue a high-profile move if winger Rodrygo leaves the Santiago Bernabéu. Manchester City are said to be interested in the Brazilian forward, especially amid growing uncertainty over Jack Grealish’s future at the Etihad Stadium. A possible swap or parallel transfer could materialize, depending on how negotiations unfold.

Rodrygo, 23, is valued between £80 million and £100 million, and his departure would provide Madrid with the financial flexibility needed to pursue Rodri or another elite midfielder.

Rodri: Real Madrid’s Ideal Midfield Anchor?

Rodri, 29, is under contract with Manchester City until 2027 but has yet to sign an extension. His consistent performances under Pep Guardiola and a Ballon d’Or win in 2024 have elevated his profile globally. Despite missing eight months due to a knee injury, the Spanish international returned in May and remains a vital part of City’s midfield engine.

Real Madrid reportedly view Rodri as a player in the mold of Zinedine Zidane, who also joined the club at a similar age and made an immediate impact.

Madrid Also Monitoring Barella, Fernandez, and Mac Allister

In addition to Rodri, Real Madrid are keeping tabs on Inter Milan’s Nicolo Barella, Chelsea’s Enzo Fernandez, and Liverpool’s Alexis Mac Allister. However, these midfielders are all under long-term contracts and integral to their respective clubs, making any potential move extremely expensive.

Reports suggest that both Fernandez and Mac Allister would command nine-figure transfer fees, making Rodri the most realistic top-tier option for Real Madrid in the current market.

Real Madrid’s Summer Activity

So far, Real Madrid have strengthened their squad with the signings of Trent Alexander-Arnold, Dean Huijsen, Franco Mastantuono, and Alvaro Carreras. With Xabi Alonso now at the helm, more changes are expected as he looks to mold the squad to fit his tactical blueprint.

Rodri’s potential arrival could mark a significant milestone in Madrid’s post-Kroos era, as the club seeks to maintain its dominance both in Spain and across Europe.

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