Rodri’s Potential Departure from Manchester City
Real Madrid are reportedly confident in securing a deal for Manchester City’s Rodri. The Spain midfielder, who is 30 years old, has one year remaining on his contract with Manchester City. Reports suggest a deal could be finalised after a meeting scheduled for Thursday.
The potential transfer fee for Rodri is estimated to be between 40-50m euros (£34m-£43m). This comes as Pep Guardiola’s decision to step down has initiated a period of change for Manchester City, with other long-serving players also moving on.
Rodri has previously expressed a desire to return to Spain. During the March international break, he told reporters, “Would I like to play in Spain again, in La Liga, in Madrid? I would like to return, yes, obviously.” He further added regarding a move to Real Madrid specifically, “You can’t turn down one of the world’s best clubs.”
Impact on Manchester City’s Midfield
The possible departure of Rodri would create a significant challenge for Manchester City, particularly as they prepare for life under new manager Enzo Maresca. Guardiola’s exit has already left a considerable void, and losing a key midfielder like Rodri would add further uncertainty to the team’s future.
Rodri’s consistent performances in North America have reportedly reignited Real Madrid’s interest in the player, who has been a long-term target for the club. They reportedly believe they can complete the transfer before the September 1 deadline.
Other Transfer Market Activities
In other transfer news, Inter Milan may renew their efforts to sign England midfielder Curtis Jones, 25, from Liverpool. Meanwhile, the signing of England centre-back John Stones, 32, on a free transfer could impact 28-year-old Argentina defender Cristian Romero’s hopes of joining the Italian club from Tottenham.
Juventus has reached an agreement with Paris St-Germain for France striker Randal Kolo Muani. The deal is structured as a loan with an obligation to buy, and the fee could reach 50m euros (£43m) with add-ons.
Brentford are reportedly close to signing Lens and Mali midfielder Mamadou Sangare, 24, as a replacement for Jordan Henderson. Aston Villa had a 30m euro (£26m) offer for Brazilian forward Allan, 22, rejected by Palmeiras. Additionally, Hull City are in discussions with Aston Villa to sign 28-year-old Jamaica winger Leon Bailey on a permanent transfer.
Fulham are nearing agreements to sign Spanish duo Cesar Palacios, a 21-year-old attacking midfielder, and 22-year-old Gonzalo Garcia, a striker, from Real Madrid. Nottingham Forest had a 20m euro offer for 21-year-old Israel international Anan Khalaili rejected by Belgian club Royale Union Saint-Gilloise. Nottingham Forest are also in line to sign Portuguese midfielder Gustavo Sa from Famalicao, with the 21-year-old expected to move to Greek side Olympiacos on loan.
Crystal Palace’s move for Augsburg’s 24-year-old French defender Chrislain Matsima has stalled, leading the club to consider other targets. Ipswich Town are reportedly interested in Standard Liege’s English defender Henry Lawrence, 24, who previously played for Chelsea. Manchester United are open to selling 22-year-old Czech goalkeeper Radek Vitek and English defender Harry Amass, 19, while English midfielders Toby Collyer, 22, and Dan Gore, 21, are also considered surplus to requirements.
Source: goal.com
Arjun Sharma
Sports Reporter