Real Madrid accelerate pursuit of Manchester City midfielder Rodri
Real Madrid have stepped up their efforts to sign Manchester City midfielder Rodri this summer following his impressive World Cup campaign with Spain.
The Spanish giants initially planned to wait until the 30-year-old became a free agent at the end of his current contract next year.
However, their hierarchy are now eager to secure his signature immediately.
The feeling is reportedly mutual, with the Madrid-born player keen on a return to his home city.
Mourinho seeks experienced core
New Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho is believed to be driving the move for the decorated midfielder.
The Portuguese coach is eager to add experienced, trophy-winning campaigners to the spine of his squad.
“You can’t turn down the best clubs in the world.”
Rodri, speaking to Spanish radio in March
While City have publicly expressed a desire to tie their talisman down to an improved contract, a sale may be unavoidable.
Maresca’s midfield rebuild
Cashing in on a player in his thirties with only a year remaining on his deal represents logical business for the Premier League side.
The English club have already begun planning for life after their influential metronome.
Enzo Maresca, preparing for his first season after succeeding Pep Guardiola, recently sanctioned a club-record move for Elliot Anderson.
While Anderson is not viewed as a direct replacement, the club believe the young midfielder possesses the required potential.
Coping without a talisman
City’s recent strategy has involved a ruthless approach to moving on aging stars, having recently parted ways with Kevin De Bruyne, Bernardo Silva and John Stones.
Losing the former Atletico Madrid man would still represent a monumental blow for the blue half of Manchester.
Despite recent injury struggles restricting his playing time, he remains widely regarded as the most complete central midfielder in English football.
City famously failed to retain their Premier League crown during the two recent campaigns where injuries severely limited his appearances.