A Move Pérez Calls the New Galáctico Strategy
Real Madrid is planning to spend €100 million to sign Rodri, widely regarded as the best defensive midfielder in the world and a key figure in Manchester City’s success over the past several seasons. Club president Florentino Pérez has called him “the number 10 of the future,” even though Rodri’s natural position is as a holding midfielder.
To make this deal happen, Real Madrid is reportedly willing to sacrifice Rodrygo or Camavinga to free up wages and balance the financial books. This would be one of the most unexpected moves of the 2025 summer window, signaling Real’s ambition to rebuild its midfield in the post-Kroos and soon post-Modrić era.
Xabi Alonso and His Strategic Vision
Newly appointed head coach Xabi Alonso plays a key role in pushing for this transfer. He believes Rodri is exactly the type of player Real is missing: someone who can control the tempo, dictate play, and bring top-level experience. In the tactical system Alonso plans to implement, Rodri would be the central pillar—just as he has been for both Manchester City and the Spanish national team.
Initially, President Pérez was hesitant about spending €100 million on a 28-year-old who had previously suffered an ACL injury. The long-time president has preferred to invest in younger players with long-term potential and higher resale value.
However, Alonso’s persistence appears to have swayed the club’s stance, especially as it’s become clear that Real still lacks a world-class defensive midfielder to complete its lineup.
A Cold Response Could Collapse the Deal
The biggest obstacle doesn’t lie within Real Madrid, but on the other side. According to multiple sources, Manchester City has no intention of selling Rodri at any price this summer. The Spanish midfielder remains a vital, irreplaceable part of Pep Guardiola’s squad, often referred to as “untouchable.”
Rodri himself has never publicly expressed a desire to leave, and moving away from a team as dominant as City may not align with his personal plans at this stage of his career.
If City maintains its firm stance, Real Madrid may have to either increase their offer further or redirect their attention to another target—likely a younger midfielder.
Will Real Madrid Change Course?
If the Rodri deal falls through, Real Madrid may revert to its original approach: focusing on young talent like Aurélien Tchouaméni or Eduardo Camavinga to build for the future. Still, Alonso’s desire to have a more mature, established midfield anchor could continue to pressure the board into pursuing a high-profile name.
Summary
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Target: Rodri – defensive midfielder
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Valuation: €100 million
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Real Madrid is willing to: Sacrifice Rodrygo or Camavinga
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Biggest obstacle: Rodri’s club has no intention of selling
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Xabi Alonso’s vision: Build a strong, experienced midfield core immediately
