Carvajal reveals behind-the-scenes attempt to take Rodri to Real Madrid

Dani Carvajal says he spoke to Rodri and tried to persuade the Spain captain to join Real Madrid during last summer’s transfer window.

Carvajal, a former Real Madrid captain who now plays for Getafe, said the club had opened strong negotiations for Rodri before Barcelona intervened and redirected the midfielder towards Camp Nou.

Asked by El Larguero on Cadena SER whether he was surprised that Rodri signed for Barcelona, Carvajal said: “You would have to ask Rodri that as well. I spoke to him, he asked me some questions and I tried to convince him. I think there were others on the other side as well… I am sure he had his reasons for choosing to play there [at Barcelona].”

Carvajal also stressed how highly he rates Rodri and said the midfielder would have strengthened any side.

“Every team would want to sign a player like Rodri,” he said. “He is an incredible player and it is difficult to find someone like him. He would be a great addition to any team.”

The discussion then turned to Vinicius Junior, who Carvajal believes will recover from a difficult period despite being sent off recently.

“There are always difficult moments in every career, and I think Vinicius is going through one of them, especially after his recent sending-off,” Carvajal said. “But he has to remain calm because he has just renewed his contract. He is a great player and an exceptional person.”

Carvajal added that he expected the Brazil international to return to his best, saying he had already overcome more challenging situations during their time together at Real Madrid.

“I know Vinicius will come back in his best form because he has got through more difficult situations; I experienced those moments with him in the dressing room,” he said.

Asked whether he had spoken to Vinicius about the possibility of leaving Real Madrid, Carvajal said there had been no detailed discussion but indicated the club had played a significant part in the player’s contract renewal.

“I have not had the chance to speak to him in great detail about that subject,” he said. “But I know Real Madrid was involved in the renewal of his contract, and I know he probably was not short of offers to leave.”

Barcelona are listed to face their next La Liga fixture on 31 October 2026, while Real Madrid are scheduled to play on 1 November 2026.