Real Madrid Operating on Basis Rodri Will Join This Summer, Says Ornstein

Real Madrid are already operating on the basis that Manchester City midfielder Rodri will join them this summer, according to insider sources's insider. The Spain international is coming off a stellar World Cup campaign where he won the Golden Ball after recovering from an ACL injury. However, Rodri now faces a back issue that requires surgery and is expected to sideline him temporarily. Despite the injury, Madrid's hierarchy, including Florentino Pérez, have greenlit the pursuit. Reports from Germany suggest a secret meeting took place this week with Rodri's representatives, and the player is desperate to return to Spain - specifically to join Real Madrid. City have been trying to convince Rodri to sign a new contract, with his current deal expiring next year, but there has been no progress due to his desire to go home. No formal club-to-club talks have taken place yet, but Madrid are now actively working on a deal. New City boss Enzo Maresca addressed the speculation on Friday, saying, "Around big players there is always speculation. I'm not worried about that.... But now surgery on, I think, Monday. He needs a holiday. He needs to rest." Whether Rodri will indeed be back at City remains uncertain. The club is undergoing a major transition after Pep Guardiola's departure, with John Stones and Bernardo Silva already leaving. Rodri reportedly feels his time in Manchester has come to a conclusion. Reports earlier this summer indicated City would rather let Rodri run down his contract than sell him, but forcing him to stay appears futile given his heart is set on a return to Spain. The situation is expected to accelerate in the coming days.