Rodri may leave Manchester City and head to Real Madrid.

The transfer of one of the cornerstones of Manchester City, Rodri, to Real Madrid may be closer than expected. With negotiations for the renewal of the Spanish player’s contract now on hold, speculation is growing about a possible move to the Santiago Bernabéu. The information, revealed by Fabrizio Romano on social media, points to a scenario of uncertainty that could change the course of the upcoming transfer window.

Rodri, who has stood out as one of the best midfielders in European football, did not hesitate to comment on the possibility of a move to the rival club in Madrid, downplaying his past connections to Atlético de Madrid. “I have a year left on my contract. There will come a time when we have to sit down and talk,” the player stated in remarks quoted by Sky Sports. “There are other players who have taken that path (between the two Madrid clubs). Not directly, but over time. You cannot refuse the best clubs in the world,” he added, revealing his desire to return to La Liga.

Moreover, Rodri did not hide his nostalgia for the Spanish league, although he currently feels satisfied in the Premier League: “I would like to return (to La Liga), yes, of course. For me, La Liga is where I started. I still follow it, not as much as before, but I still keep an eye on it.” What is expected is that his decision may soon change, as both Manchester City and the player seem increasingly open to a separation in the upcoming summer window.

In the meantime, Manchester City is already starting to make plans for Rodri’s potential departure. Reports indicate that the club is considering strong alternatives to replace the midfielder. Names like Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest and Sandro Tonali from Newcastle are being considered as potential reinforcements. Finding a worthy replacement for Rodri, who has won four Premier League titles, a Champions League, and even a Ballon d’Or, will not be an easy task.

Rodri’s departure would leave a significant gap in Pep Guardiola’s squad, and there is no doubt that, if realized, the transfer to Real Madrid would be one of the most exciting of the transfer market. With the transfer window approaching, fans and football analysts will be watching every move that could indicate the future of the talented midfielder.

This article first appeared on Apito Final.