Real Madrid have been one of the most active clubs in the summer transfer window as they are planning a proper overhaul under Xabi Alonso.
They have strengthened their backline by the signings of Trent Alexander-Arnold, Dean Huijsen and Alvaro Carreras.
While improving their options in attack by securing a talented youngster in Franco Mastantuono from River Plate.
However, their issues in midfield continue to haunt, especially after the Club World Cup semifinal debacle against PSG, where they got outplayed and lost 4-0.
As per Diario AS, Los Blancos are pushing for a player who can replace Toni Kroos in the middle of the park.
The current midfielders at Madrid don’t have similar attributes to the German midfielder, and with Luka Modric also moving away, they need reinforcements.
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While Real Madrid have reportedly identified some of the top midfielders from all across Europe, they have identified Manchester City midfielder Rodri as their prime target.
The shortlist of midfielders include – Nicolo Barella of Inter Milan, City’s Rodri, Liverpool’s Alexis Mac Allister, and Enzo Fernandez from Chelsea.
Earlier, Los Blancos were also looking at Stuttgart’s Angelo Stiller, who has impressed Alonso during his time at Bayer Leverkusen.
Why are Real Madrid targeting Rodri?
Real Madrid desperately need a player who can control the tempo of the game in the middle of the park, and Rodri could be exactly that.
The Spain international has been one of the pivotal figures in Pep Guardiola’s recent dominance in the Premier League.
He was so good in the 2023/24 season that he went on to win the Ballon d’Or over many popular names, courtesy of having a big impact in City’s treble triumph.
However, Real Madrid are targeting him because his current contract ends in 2027, and the Spanish heavyweights believe that they can lure him out of Manchester City.
Other options on the midfield shortlist are tied with long-term contracts, and therefore, Real Madrid are pushing for Rodri, who was out injured for nine months.
His absence affected City severely as they went without winning a trophy last season.
Los Blancos are reportedly planning to monitor his performances in the upcoming season, and if they are satisfied, they will move for him in 2026.
They would also hope that the 29-year-old doesn’t sign a new contract with City in between.
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