Real Madrid distance themselves from potential move for Manchester City ace

Real Madrid have moved to distance themselves from the growing speculation surrounding Rodri after reports linked the Manchester City midfielder with a move to the Santiago Bernabéu.

According to Jose Felix Diaz in AS, the Spanish side has rejected claims that they recently held talks with Rodri’s representatives and have even contacted Manchester City to deny suggestions that negotiations are underway. 

The latest Real Madrid transfer news comes just hours after reports claimed club officials had secretly met with the Spain international’s agent to discuss personal terms.

Those reports understandably gathered momentum, but Real Madrid are said to have been frustrated by the widespread speculation, insisting that no such discussions have taken place.

Real Madrid reject claims of Rodri negotiations

The report states that Real Madrid were unhappy to see their name repeatedly linked with the midfielder without any concrete developments.

Real Madrid are getting frustrated with constant links with Rodri. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

In fact, club officials contacted Manchester City to make it clear that reports of discussions with Rodri were inaccurate. 

Sources within Real Madrid also dismissed suggestions that an agreement had already been reached with the player, describing those claims as unfounded.

Despite these developments, it cannot be stated that Rodri is absent from Real Madrid’s long-term thinking. 

Internally, some figures within the club believe the Ballon d’Or-winning midfielder would provide greater balance, control and identity to the team’s midfield, making him an attractive option if the right opportunity ever emerged.

However, those views have not translated into active negotiations, with the club maintaining that no formal process has begun.

So what happens now?

Rodri’s contract with Manchester City expires in 2027. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

Although Real Madrid have denied current negotiations, Rodri’s future at Manchester City continues to attract attention across the European transfer market.

It must be remembered that the Spain international has yet to renew his contract, which is entering its final year. 

That situation has naturally created uncertainty around his future and prompted Manchester City to explore different scenarios should an extension fail to materialise.

The report suggests City could be prepared to consider offers in the region of €60 million, although there are contrary reports doing rounds on the web.

As things stand, there have been no direct talks between Real Madrid and either Rodri or Manchester City, leaving any potential move in the realm of speculation.