Sources: Man City holding talks with star player as Real Madrid plot move
Below is a summary of the full article. Click here for the full version from Football Insider or go back to LFC Live.
(Credit: Imago) Sun 24 May 2026 20:45, UK Rodri is being lined up for fresh contract talks at Manchester City as they aim to extend his stay at the Etihad, sources have told Football Insider.The 29-year-old is out of contract at the Etihad next summer, while there have also been suggestions he could seek a move away when this summer’s transfer window opens.City are determined to prevent major chances before next season, with both Bernardo Silva and crucially Pep Guardiola already set to leave in the near future.As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Transfer Insider podcast, City are planning to hold new talks with Rodri when the Premier League season ends.The Spain international has been a long-term target for Real Madrid, who are pushing to agree terms, but he remains a key part of Man City’s plans for the future. 🔄 Man City Transfer Update 🔄 Breaking news on signings, elite targets, and contract news from the City Football Group boardroom. VISIT THE TRANSFER HUB MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES Could Rodri sign a new contract at Man City?Football Insider revealed on 16 May that Real Madrid are “doing everything” to sign Rodri after he emerged among their top targets for the transfer window.The imminent arrival of Jose Mourinho as their next permanent manager is expected to further accelerate their plans, as he is keen to link up with the Man City star.Rodri2025-26 StatsAppearances33Starts22Minutes Played2185Trophies Won1x FA Cup1x League CupRodri’s stats for Man City in the 2025-26 season.
(via Transfermarkt)However, with Man City still hopeful of extending his contract, much will depend on the midfielder’s stance and whether he is prepared to commit his future.Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: “Rodri potentially could move on in the wake of Guardiola leaving.“Obviously he’s just got one year left on his contract. City are keen to keep him and are planning talks with Rodri to see if they can come to an agreement.“Those talks should take place during the summer over his future because they do want to keep hold of him and avoid too much of a change.“But maybe with Pep leaving, it could open the door for Rodri to follow him out the door as well and with Real Madrid waiting in the background.“They are ready to sign him as well with just one year left on his contract.
If no new deal can be agreed, that’ll give Real a lot of encouragement that maybe he could be lured away.”What are the hurdles for Man City’s contract plans?Guardiola’s departure looks set to cause problems for City, with players considering their futures having joined the club to play under the legendary boss.The manager brought Rodri to the Etihad in 2019, and after seven years together, his imminent exit may inspire the Spain international to also seek a move away.Credit: ImagoFootball Insider revealed on 22 May that Rodri could be set to quit Man City following Guardiola’s departure as the club prepares for major changes.The door is believed to have been opened for a move to Real Madrid, with Mourinho set to push the club to bring the midfielder to Los Blancos.Rodri previously admitted that he would not be able to turn down a move to Real, but insisted last weekend that he is “not thinking much” about his future. Don’t Miss a Beat: Your Man City Insider Access Get the full story from the Etihad Stadium and CFA with our dedicated expert hubs: Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from the Etihad Campus.