Rodri's stance on leaving Man City for Real Madrid in Trent Alexander-Arnold double swoop

Manchester City midfielder Rodri would only consider leaving the Etihad Stadium to sign for Real Madrid, according to reports. The Spain international has come to the attention of the 15-time European champions, who are also said to be interested in landing Trent Alexander-Arnold from Liverpool.

Rodri joined City from Atletico Madrid in 2019 and scored the only goal in the 2023 Champions League final as his side defeated Inter Milan to lift the trophy.

He has also helped the Citizens win four Premier League titles, two Carabao Cups and the FA Cup, with his contract in Manchester set to expire in 2027.

According to Spanish outlet AS, Rodri has almost become a priority target for Real. The departure of Toni Kroos, who retired in the summer, has forced Madrid chiefs to search for a replacement with similar characteristics to the German.

Rodri’s agent Pablo Barquero, who also represents Real Madrid Castilla manager Raul, has received calls from City as the club want to extend the ace’s contract at the Etihad Stadium.

But Rodri would be very tempted to return to his hometown and be part of the Bernabeu project, although he hasn’t ruled out a new deal with City as he knows he would be placed on the highest salary scale. Rodri will either commit to City or move to Real when he does decide on his next steps, with the La Liga giants yet to pull any strings on a possible transfer.

Real enjoyed a formidable campaign last time around as they won the La Liga and Champions League double under Carlo Ancelotti. The team are currently four points behind league leaders Barcelona after winning two of their opening four matches of the season and drawing the other two.

They were linked with Alexander-Arnold in the summer, with the player ultimately remaining at Anfield to work with new Reds boss Arne Slot. But with the England right-back’s contract set to expire next summer, Real could pounce at the start of next year to get a deal over the line.

And ahead of Liverpool’s Premier League clash with Brentford last month, former Reds midfielder Jamie Redknapp told Sky Sports: “Does Trent want to stay here for the rest of his career, or does he want to go and try something else?

“And if he does, when Real Madrid come calling, it’s very difficult for any player [to turn down an offer]. I totally get that dilemma he’s in.

“He’s in the dream position as a footballer – 25 years of age, one year left on your contract. He could see how this year goes, he can wait until Christmas.

“I’m sure there will already be some dialogue with other clubs – let’s be honest, that’s how it works. It will be interesting how it plays out.”