Sources: Rodri opens door for Real Madrid move after rejecting Man City

Manchester City star Rodri has rebuffed attempts to extend his contract this summer, sources close to the club have told Football Insider.

This has opened the door for Real Madrid to complete a sensational swoop for the 30-year-old midfielder before the transfer deadline.

The Spanish giants are now pulling out all of the stops to get a deal done for the Spain international before the 2026-27 campaign starts.

Football Insider has previously revealed that Real Madrid have accelerated their plans to sign Rodri after his excellent World Cup campaign, where he won the Player of the Tournament, alongside lifting the prestigious trophy.

The midfielder is now in the last year of his contract, and, if he doesn't leave in the next few weeks, could potentially sign a pre-contract with Real Madrid in January, putting further pressure on Man City.

Enzo Maresca’s side are reluctant to lose Rodri, who featured 33 times in all competitions last season as the club won the Carabao Cup and the FA Cup.

Rodri’s World Cup performances have caught Real Madrid’s interest

Back in Spain, Rodri is obviously a hero.

The midfielder was key to the Iberian nation winning their second-ever World Cup title, as they dispatched Argentina 1-0 in a dominant final in the USA.

Rodri’s defensive prowess led to Spain conceding just once throughout the tournament, and he is now one of the favourites to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or.

Previously, Real Madrid were thought to be targeting the Man City star on a free transfer. However, it is now clear that his recent performances have made a move to the Spanish capital this summer a realistic prospect.

This is no doubt concerning for Man City, who will be aiming to win the Premier League for the first time in three seasons this campaign.

However, it remains to be seen if the Manchester club would be willing to facilitate a sale of their star man in the coming weeks.

Who could replace Rodri at Man City this summer?

One player Man City could look to sign if Rodri does leave is Enzo Fernandez.

The Chelsea midfielder has been linked with a move to the Etihad this summer and could reunite with his former manager in Maresca.

Last week, Man City were even the bookies’ favourite to sign Fernandez in what could be another statement signing.

However, it remains to be seen what Man City decide to do in the remaining weeks of the transfer window.