Manchester City are working to secure a contract extension with midfielder Rodri before his agreement expires in June 2027. Real Madrid have entered the picture as a serious contender after shifting their stance on the player, motivated by his exceptional showing at the World Cup where he led Spain to victory and earned the tournament's best-player award. His demonstrated durability during the summer campaign has strengthened his market appeal despite previous injury concerns.

Madrid's pursuit may trigger competition from other elite European clubs including Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain. The Spanish giants may need to generate transfer revenue to finance a deal, potentially through selling Aurélien Tchouaméni. Rodri has previously suggested he would consider a move to Madrid, having played for Atletico Madrid earlier in his career, which complicates City's position despite their stated confidence in retaining him.