Real Madrid Lining Up Mbappe-Style Raid For Man City’s Rodri – Report

Rodri. (PC: @ManCity/X)

Real Madrid may only be in January, but their summer transfer strategy is already crystal clear: one that could spell trouble for Manchester City.

According to MarkLos Blancos are preparing a Mbappe-style operation to lure Ballon d’Or winner Rodri away from the Etihad.

The Spanish midfielder has just 18 months left on his City contract, and with no renewal agreed yet, Madrid are ready to apply pressure — either forcing a cut-price deal this summer or positioning themselves to sign him for free in 2027.

It’s a familiar playbook. Madrid used the same long-game tactic to land Kylian Mbappe, patiently waiting out PSG before sealing one of the biggest signings in football history. Now, Rodri could be next.

While strengthening at centre-back remains Madrid’s top priority, with David Alaba expected to depart and Antonio Rüdiger’s future uncertain, the club is also keen to add a midfield general: someone who can dictate tempo, control games, and provide creativity.

Despite turning 30 in June and enduring a difficult spell with injuries, Rodri has reminded everyone of his value. He returned earlier this week against Sunderland and looked completely at home — calm, dominant, and indispensable.

Manchester City view Rodri as untouchable. He is the heartbeat of Pep Guardiola’s side, the player who glues everything together. But contract reality can change everything. If City fail to secure an extension before summer, they may be forced into a sale rather than risk losing their Ballon d’Or winner for nothing.

And Real Madrid are watching closely.

Quiet, patient, and ruthless when the moment arrives, the Mbappe blueprint is back on the table, and Rodri could be the next superstar to feel its pull.