Secret Transfer Meeting: Rodri's Future Shifts Again

Real Madrid have taken a decisive step in their pursuit of Rodri, reportedly holding a secret meeting that could determine the Manchester City star's next move. According to broadcaster Sport Deutschland, the meeting took place in Madrid on Tuesday, with club representatives sitting down with the midfielder's agent to discuss a potential summer switch. Well-informed sources indicate that Los Blancos are prepared to offer Rodri a contract running through 2030, a clear sign that the Spanish giants are now fully engaged in what they term a 'mega transfer.' This marks a dramatic turnaround after months of hesitation from club president Florentino Perez, who had previously questioned the wisdom of signing the Spain captain. Rodri has made no secret of his desire to return to his homeland and join Jose Mourinho's club. With his current Manchester City deal expiring in 2027, the Premier League champions face the prospect of losing him on a free transfer next summer if they do not sell now. City have offered the midfielder an extension, but the player's preference appears clear. Transfer insider Matteo Moretto reinforced the narrative on Wednesday, stating: "Real Madrid already have Rodri's approval to sign, and from a contractual standpoint, the parties are very close. Florentino Perez is now showing that he is much more open to the possibility of signing him. There are still no negotiations underway with Manchester City." Talks with City are expected to be complex. Rodri's Estimated Transfer Value currently sits at €65.8 million, a figure that continues to drop as his contract winds down. At his peak, his ETV reached €144 million - the highest ever recorded for a midfield player. Real Madrid have not completed a deal worth €65 million or more in three years; their only such signings this decade were Aurélien Tchouaméni (€80m from Monaco in 2022) and Jude Bellingham (€113m from Borussia Dortmund in 2023). While a Rodri transfer may not crack Real Madrid's top-five all-time fees, it would still represent a significant outlay - giving Manchester City hope they can resist the summer assault. However, Real Madrid have a history of patience. When Kylian Mbappé had a year left on his PSG contract, they waited and signed him as a free agent 12 months later. The signs suggest a similar playbook for Rodri.