Since arriving at Manchester City back in the summer of 2019, Rodri has certainly underlined his status as a modern era icon at the Etihad.

Cementing his spot as one of Europe’s ultimate midfield superstars, the 29-year-old has lifted 11 pieces of major silverware during his time in the blue half of Manchester and bagged the winning goal as City claimed a maiden Champions League crown back in June 2023.

Although the Spanish international might be enjoying what has been his most fruitful spell of the 2025/26 campaign, Rodri has dealt with some high-profile injury issues since his Ballon d’Or coronation less than 18 months ago.

With reports suggesting that Pep Guardiola’s side could be willing to accept a bid in the region of €60million, Real Madrid are keeping a close eye on proceedings and are planning a blockbuster swoop this summer.

A big decision for Rodri this summer

Cementing his spot in Man City folklore back in the summer of 2023 as he fired Guardiola’s side to a first piece of European silverware, City fans would certainly be heartbroken to see the former Atletico Madrid starlet end his seven-year spell at the end of the season.

Lifting 11 pieces of major silverware during his era of dominance in Manchester, the 29-year-old deserves his place alongside fellow City icons such as Kevin De Bruyne and David Silva.

While Rodri will almost certainly not aggressively pursue a messy divorce from the Etihad this summer, it has been suggested that Guardiola’s individual future could prove to be decisive.

Although the former Barcelona boss might have not publicly made a decision over his future past the end of the 2025/26 campaign, there has been plenty of speculation that City are already preparing for life after their talismanic boss.

Football Insider reported earlier in the week that Rodri could be tempted for a move away if Guardiola does decide to draw a line under his record-breaking tenure in the blue half of Manchester.

Set to enter the final 12 months of his current deal at the Etihad this summer, City will be more than aware that this is their final opportunity to cash in on the 59-cap international.

Rodri passion! 😤 pic.twitter.com/emJ8tKtbbw

— Manchester City (@ManCity) February 21, 2026

Real Madrid keeping a close

Shockingly ending Xabi Alonso’s seven-match stint in the Spanish capital last month, it appears that Real Madrid face what is a crucial summer behind the scenes.

With it yet to be seen if Alvaro Arbeola will still be in the Bernabeu dugout at the start of the 2026/27 campaign, Los Blancos are also reportedly planning for a potential major overhaul when the transfer window reopens.

Although there might be plenty of speculation over the likes of Antonio Rudiger and Brazilian ace Rodrygo, it appears that Madrid have identified Rodri as their key summer target.

With recent speculation that Chelsea could be eyeing a blockbuster move for French international Aurelien Tchouameni, Los Blancos have been a long-term admirer of City’s midfield talisman.

Previously linked with a blockbuster move for the former Ballon d’Or winner over the past two campaigns, the Real Madrid hierarchy are reportedly looking to make an active pursuit this summer.

With it suggested that City could be willing to accept an offer in the region of €60million, Football Insider’s report suggests that Arbeloa has already given the green light over a potential sensational summer swoop.

🚨Rodri es el centrocampista que quiere el Real Madrid.

El conjunto madridista evaluará su forma física hasta el Mundial.

Se estima que podría costar unos 50 millones. pic.twitter.com/IBg3vU5Z6X

— Ramón Álvarez de Mon (@Ramon_AlvarezMM) February 27, 2026