Why Real Madrid changed their minds and made Rodri their new transfer priority

Rodri's future is one of the most talked-about topics of this transfer window, especially after his performances at the World Cup. Voted best player of the tournament, the midfielder is now on the radar of Paris Saint-Germain and, above all, Real Madrid, who are preparing a bid to sign him.

However, the idea of making an offer for the Manchester City midfielder wasn't always met with unanimous approval at Real Madrid. According to the newspaper AS, the club's management remained reluctant for eleven months. But, according to the daily, the position has recently changed: what was considered a "definite no" before the World Cup and the first few matches has turned into a "yes," provided a reasonable agreement is reached on the transfer fee.

The newspaper points out that beyond the leadership and ability to control the game displayed during the nine matches played at the World Cup, a strong wave of popular support would, in fact, push the midfielder towards the Santiago Bernabéu.

Real Madrid's mistrust of Rodri is now a thing of the past.

According to AS, the player's performances in North America have dispelled two doubts that had, at one point, been raised by the Spanish club.

The first concerns Rodri's physical condition and level of play. Real Madrid are convinced that his performance at the World Cup leaves no doubt: the midfielder has rediscovered his best form and is once again the player who won the Ballon d'Or in 2024. His season with Manchester City didn't have the same impact, but his performance with Spain was of a very high standard.

Another factor working in his favor is the support of the fans. According to the newspaper, while some members had reservations due to his past with Manchester City, one of Real Madrid's biggest rivals in recent years, the player's determination has dispelled all doubts.

The newspaper also points out that Rodri's potential desire to return to La Liga was also taken into account, as the midfielder has refused an approach from PSG as well as a contract extension offer from Manchester City, where his current contract runs until June 30, 2027. Barça are also reportedly interested in the Spanish midfielder.

Another point that has changed concerns how the player is perceived internally at Real Madrid. AS has learned that at Valdebebas, the days when Rodri's name was regularly linked to the Madrid club without any concrete steps following are also over. Now, the interest is very real, especially since club president Florentino Pérez gave the green light to begin negotiations, which could progress after a meeting scheduled for Thursday, July 30.

The Spanish newspaper emphasizes that reaching an agreement with the player will not be a problem. However, the matter has now entered a negotiation phase with the English club. Logically, Manchester City will not let go for free of a player who demonstrated an excellent level of performance after a difficult injury during the World Cup, and who was a key element in Spain's world title victory.

For its part, Real Madrid says it is confident it can complete the deal for an amount between €40 and €50 million.