Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain are both pursuing Manchester City midfielder Rodri after his starring role in Spain’s 2026 World Cup triumph, but the Premier League club is resisting a sale. Journalist Matteo Moretto reports that Rodri has reached a personal agreement with Real Madrid, yet the Spanish side has not opened formal talks with City. PSG, meanwhile, has inquired about the player’s availability, according to Radio Monte Carlo, though the French outlet assesses the Parisian club’s chances as slim given competition from La Liga’s leading clubs.

Real Madrid’s interest had initially cooled because of concerns over Rodri’s injury record and the tactical preferences of new coach José Mourinho, Spanish media report. His dominant World Cup – which earned him the Golden Ball as the tournament’s best player – prompted a rethink by key figures including director general José Ángel Sánchez and chief scout Juni Calafat. PSG views the 30-year-old as an ideal midfield addition, but the club had not previously included him in its summer plans. Manchester City, under new manager Enzo Maresca, is reluctant to lose a player it is reportedly trying to extend, while Rodri himself has publicly stated a desire to return to Spain and would not rule out joining Real Madrid despite his Atlético past.

Any transfer would be complicated by Rodri’s physical condition. He is set to undergo back surgery and is still recovering from a serious knee ligament injury suffered in September 2024, though he made 33 appearances in the 2025/26 season. Real Madrid is mindful of the lengthy recoveries other players have required after similar injuries. If a deal materialises, British tabloid The Sun suggests Madrid could sell midfielder Aurélien Tchouameni to help fund the move, with Manchester United reportedly interested in the Frenchman for around £68 million.

Rodri’s contract runs until 2027, but he is entering its final year, and City have already seen the departures of Pep Guardiola, John Stones and Bernardo Silva this summer. Spain coach Luis de la Fuente has called him the best in the world in his position, and his 93.4% pass accuracy at the World Cup underscored his value. For now, no official negotiations between the clubs have taken place, and Rodri is waiting for Real Madrid and Manchester City to agree a fee, according to Moretto. The situation remains fluid, with the player’s camp reportedly seeking a move to Spain.