- Real Madrid do not believe they can complete a transfer for Rodri as things stand now
- However, they believe they can if Man City are punished in their trial.
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Real Madrid are reportedly counting on a negative outcome for Manchester City in their ‘trial of the century’ if they sign Rodri.
Rodri is one of four players Madrid want next summer, alongside Trent Alexander-Arnold and William Saliba or Cristian Romero, according to The Independent.
City are facing 115 charges of breaching Premier League financial rules in a case that could lead to relegation from the division. The champions insist they are innocent.
And Madrid are reportedly awaiting the outcome of the trial, believing a Rodri move could be feasible if City are found guilty and punished severely, The Athletics.
However, the LaLiga giants are not confident they can meet his transfer fee or salary demands given City are at the pinnacle of the footballing world.
Real Madrid are reportedly waiting to see if Manchester City will be severely punished in their ‘trial of the century’ to make a move for Rodri
They don’t think they can afford him if things continue as they are, but maybe if City are punished
Rodri said at a press conference today: ‘I have three years left at Man City and when I sign the contract I won’t think about other teams. Nothing more to say.’
However, the 28-year-old footballer, who previously played for Atlético Madrid, was born in the Spanish capital and it appears the prospect of playing in his home country again appeals to him.
Rodri’s family still lives in Madrid. He traveled to visit them in January after the death of his grandmother.
With his contract expiring in 2027, City still have the opportunity to demand a large transfer fee for a player in his prime and with global value.
However, according to The Athletic, City are keen to sign him to a new contract.
A new deal would take him close to Kevin De Bruyne and Erling Haaland as the club’s highest-earning players.
After his impressive performances at the 2024 Spanish Euros, where he won the country, his worldwide fame has only increased.
Rodri has become a serious contender for the Ballon d’Or due to his successes for both club and country.
The Man City trial will take place at the International Dispute Resolution Centre in central London
City could face relegation from the Premier League or a huge points deduction if they are found guilty in their 115-count trial
Real Madrid already have a strong midfield position with Jude Bellingham, Aurelien Tchouameni, Eduardo Camavinga, Luka Modric and Federico Valverde.
Traditionally, Rodri has been praised mainly for his defensive qualities, but it is now recognised that he can be influential at both ends of the pitch.
Last season he scored a personal best nine goals, including the final goal of their Premier League campaign to secure victory over West Ham – and with it the title.