Real Madrid renew optimism over signing Manchester City’s Rodri after revisiting transfer stance

Real Madrid have revived their pursuit of Manchester City midfielder Rodri and are increasingly confident of completing a deal this summer, according to ESPN.

The Spanish club had previously ruled out a move for the 30-year-old, but senior figures at the Bernabeu have now dramatically shifted their position following his recent performances and a fresh internal review of their transfer priorities.

ESPN reports that Real Madrid’s initial reluctance stemmed from concerns over Rodri’s physical condition and his recent injury record, which led the club to close the file on a potential transfer earlier in the window.

However, that stance has been overturned after Rodri’s standout displays for Spain during their triumphant 2026 World Cup campaign, in which he captained the national team to the title. His influential role in that success is understood to have been a key factor in persuading Real Madrid president Florentino Perez and other top executives to reassess the situation.

The same report states that Rodri’s form at the tournament was viewed within the club as “exceptional”, reinforcing the belief that he could make an immediate impact in Madrid’s midfield and justify the risks previously associated with his fitness record.

Real step up efforts amid competition

In light of this reassessment, Real Madrid are now said to have reopened the case and authorised an intensification of their efforts to sign the Manchester City player during the current transfer window.

The club’s renewed push comes with added encouragement from the player’s side. According to ESPN, Rodri himself is keen on a move to Real Madrid, aligning his personal preference with the Spanish giants’ revived interest.

Despite that, Real Madrid are not alone in their pursuit. Paris Saint-Germain have attempted to insert themselves into the negotiations, exploring the possibility of bringing the Spain international to Ligue 1.

PSG’s interest has not, however, diminished Real Madrid’s belief that they can secure the player’s signature. The sense of optimism at the Bernabeu has grown as both the club’s internal doubts have eased and indications of Rodri’s desire to join have strengthened their position.

Strategic rethink ahead of new season

The change of heart over Rodri comes as Real Madrid continue to reassess their wider transfer strategy ahead of the new campaign, with the club hierarchy regularly reviewing targets as form, fitness and market conditions evolve.

The performances of several leading European players in recent months, and particularly during major international competition, have prompted the La Liga side to revisit dossiers on individuals who had previously been discounted.

Rodri’s case is viewed internally as a prime example of this shift in thinking: a previously closed file reopened after further evaluation, with the player’s recent achievements tipping the balance in favour of renewed negotiations.

While no agreement has yet been reported between Real Madrid and Manchester City, the Spanish champions’ confidence in their chances of landing Rodri has clearly grown, and the midfielder’s own stance is seen as a crucial factor as talks develop during the remainder of the summer window.