Lessons learned from Silva departure
Manchester City look set to keep Rodri this summer, with the club reluctant to lose another experienced midfielder following Bernardo Silva's exit.
The Spain international is entering the final year of his contract and has yet to agree fresh terms, despite reports that talks have taken place in recent months. His form and fitness were below his usual standards throughout last season, and he admitted he would not turn down a move to Real Madrid. But the board appears to have drawn a line.
Former Manchester United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that Rodri is increasingly likely to stay at the Etihad. “I don't see how Rodri can leave, too,” Brown said. “They can't lose their two best midfielders in the same window. That would be a mistake.”
Rodri managed just 17 league starts last season as he recovered from a long-term hamstring injury. Fitness remains a concern, but he is still expected to be a key part of Enzo Maresca's squad come August.
Instead, it is Tijjani Reijnders and Mateo Kovacic who appear more likely to move on. Reijnders started strongly after his arrival last summer but fell out of favour under Pep Guardiola, starting only two of City's final 15 league games. Juventus are among the Serie A clubs interested in the Dutchman.
Kovacic, 32, managed just nine appearances in a campaign disrupted by injury. He is also entering the final year of his deal, with AC Milan and Aston Villa reportedly monitoring his situation.
With Silva already gone, City look set to keep hold of the midfield general. It would be a surprise to see them weaken that department any further.