Premier League
Rodri Hernández, a 30-year-old midfielder from Manchester City, is the signing that José Mourinho has identified as a priority in this Real Madrid transfer market to strengthen the midfield. Both clubs are already negotiating a deal in which the English team is demanding around 75 million euros.
The player is under contract until June 30, 2027, a circumstance that limits City's margin to demand a higher amount. Real Madrid aims to lower the initial price and finalize the transfer during this summer market.
Rodri Hernández, the piece requested by José Mourinho
José Mourinho believes that Rodri Hernández can take charge of organizing the game from the base and can operate both as a lone defensive midfielder and within a double pivot. The latter system is part of the Portuguese coach's plans for the upcoming season.
The coach sees the squad in need of a player to link the build-up play with the attacking players. Rodri performs this role at Manchester City and has done so with Spain, the team with which he won the 2026 World Cup.
His performance in the tournament strengthened Real Madrid's decision. The midfielder was awarded the World Cup Golden Ball after captaining Spain, a factor that completely convinced the sports management of his ability to deliver immediate results.
Real Madrid had already considered his signing before the competition, but the deal was finalized only after the tournament. The player's age is not a hindrance as the aim is to bring in a starter for the upcoming seasons, not a long-term development project.
Mourinho also values his ability to operate without another midfielder alongside him. This option would allow for an additional partner in specific matches or free a position for players like Jude Bellingham and Arda Güler.
Manchester City sets the price at 75 million
Manchester City is open to negotiation but has set the starting point at 75 million euros. The English club aims to maximize income before Rodri enters the final months of his contract.
Efforts had been made at the Etihad for a contract extension, but discussions have not led to an agreement. If the player does not extend his contract, he could negotiate freely with another club starting from January 2027 and leave without a transfer fee at the end of the season.
Real Madrid is considering figures below the initial demand. The initial amounts linked to the negotiations range between 50 and 60 million euros, leaving at least a 15 million difference between the parties.
The Madrid club relies on revenues from player sales to finance the latest signings. The sale of Gonzalo García and potential deals involving other squad members could increase the budget available to secure the transfer.
Player agreement brings operation closer
Rodri Hernández has reportedly agreed to the terms presented by Real Madrid. The contract would be one of the last long-term agreements of his career and would allow him to return to LaLiga, where he previously played for Villarreal and Atlético Madrid.
The negotiation now depends on reaching an understanding between the clubs. Manchester City must decide whether to accept a lower figure than 75 million or retain the player until the end of his contract, risking losing him without any transfer fee.
The next step will involve a new proposal from Real Madrid to bridge the financial gap. José Mourinho hopes to have Rodri Hernández before the official start of the season, but the finalization will depend on City lowering their valuation in the upcoming negotiations.
This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Mourinho aprieta al Real Madrid por Rodri
