Manchester City are keeping close tabs on Rodrygo's future at Real Madrid, with reports in Spain suggesting the Brazilian forward has held private discussions with Xabi Alonso regarding a potential summer switch to the Etihad.
Rodrygo, 24, has been a regular feature in Madrid’s recent successes, collecting two Champions League winner’s medals, but the winds of change may be blowing at the Bernabéu. Spanish outlet Defensa Central claims City are preparing an opening offer for the forward, amid increasing speculation over an end-of-season reshuffle in the Spanish capital.
While Rodrygo has not formally asked to leave, it’s understood that his long-term role under Alonso could prove decisive. According to the report, the former Liverpool midfielder conveyed to Madrid’s hierarchy: “I don’t see him wanting to go to City, at least that’s not what he’s told me.”
Yet Defensa Central suggests that should Alonso’s tactical plans push Rodrygo to the fringes, the Brazilian would be open to a departure.
City’s interest in Rodrygo is long-standing. Pep Guardiola is known to be an admirer of the forward’s versatility and technical ability, seeing him as a potential long-term solution across the front line, particularly with uncertainty surrounding the futures of some of his wide players.
With Madrid falling short in LaLiga, the Copa del Rey, and the Champions League this season, there is a growing sense that a refresh is imminent at the Bernabéu. Rodrygo, despite his pedigree, could be among those facing an uncertain summer.
City are not alone in the chase. Arsenal and Liverpool are both monitoring the situation, though financial obstacles could prove a stumbling block. According to Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg, Rodrygo is seeking a package in the region of €10 million net per year – which, factoring in the UK’s 45% top income tax rate, would equate to a gross weekly wage of around £300,000.
That level of salary expectation has reportedly deterred Arsenal for now, although the player remains open to leaving Madrid should the right opportunity arise.
For Manchester City, any move for Rodrygo would be part of a carefully managed summer strategy. With the Club World Cup on the horizon and contract renewals in motion behind the scenes, Guardiola and incoming sporting director Hugo Viana are expected to take a measured approach in the market.
Rodrygo’s combination of Champions League pedigree, age profile, and high technical ceiling fits the blueprint of a Guardiola signing. But the final decision may rest on how much playing time Alonso can offer him – and how far City are willing to go financially to secure the player.