(Credit: Imago)

James Murray

Mon 30 March 2026 12:00, UK

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Rodri is likely to join Real Madrid from Manchester City following the midfielder’s latest comments around his future. 

That is according to former Man City financial adviser Stefan Borson, who exclusively told Football Insider Pep Guardiola’s side would entertain a £50million offer for the Spain international. 

Speaking to Spanish media last week, Rodri said he would like to return to Spain after leaving the Premier League.

The 29-year-old fuelled speculation around a potential move to Real Madrid after admitting “you can’t turn down the best clubs in the world”. 

Man City have made multiple new signings as part of their rebuild over the past year, but Rodri still remains an integral member of their squad. 

Why Rodri exit is ‘inevitable’ at Man City

Former Manchester United chief scout Mick Brown exclusively told Football Insider Rodri could join Real Madrid this summer. 

However, the La Liga giants would have to agree a fee with Man City for that deal to happen, with the Spaniard under contract until June 2027. 

Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, Borson discussed Rodri’s potential exit from the Etihad Stadium.

“Well, it’s inevitable, partly because he’s nearly 30,” said Borson.

“The reality is that the best that City could expect is a one-year extension, perhaps. But in terms of this summer, a lot will depend on whether Real Madrid are prepared to pay let’s say £50m, which is probably the level that City would entertain. 

“I don’t think it’s a major shock that he’s ready to return to Spain, especially after the injury and the intensity of the Premier League and the fact he’s won everything.

“He’s 30 years old this summer. With Rodri, it doesn’t feel like he is 30 for some reason, but this is just a natural sort of time for him to consider his position.” 

How Real Madrid could approach Rodri deal

Borson believes Rodri is more likely to leave Man City on a free transfer after spending the past seven years at the club since joining in a £63m deal from Atletico Madrid.

“As I sit here today, my expectation would be that Real Madrid will not pay £50m and, therefore, he will see out his contract and go on a free transfer,” said Borson. 

“But City do take fairly player-friendly approaches when players have given good service. I wouldn’t rule it out for this summer, but I still think it’s unlikely.

“Then it becomes a choice of whether he wants to go now or do one more year. The reality is that, by the end of next season, he’ll definitely have gone.”