Real Madrid transfer news: Rodri 'identified' by Xabi Alonso to fill Toni Kroos void

Real Madrid have reinforced their squad ahead of the 2025-26 season with the arrivals of Trent Alexander-Arnold, Dean Huijsen, Franco Mastantuono and Alvaro Carreras. At the same time, new manager Xabi Alonso is expected to trim his squad, and Rodrygo is strongly tipped to be among the departures from the Santiago Bernabeu.

The Brazilian winger is attracting significant interest, with Manchester City reportedly monitoring his situation despite their already substantial outlay this summer. With Jack Grealish’s future at the Etihad appearing uncertain, Pep Guardiola is believed to be eyeing a replacement, and Rodrygo is said to be on his wishlist.

Real Madrid interested in Rodri as they plan midfield rebuild

Reports in Spain suggest that a potential swap deal could be in the works. According to AS, Real Madrid are closely tracking Rodri as they look for a long-term replacement for Toni Kroos, who retired at the end of last season. The La Liga giants are reportedly in a strong financial position to make another marquee signing, particularly if Rodrygo is sold.

The 23-year-old could reportedly fetch between £80m and £100m, which would significantly boost Real’s budget.

Rodri, under contract with Manchester City until 2027, has yet to agree an extension. AS highlights his age — 29 — as similar to Zinedine Zidane when he joined Real Madrid. The Spanish midfielder has been a pivotal figure under Guardiola, featuring in 265 matches in all competitions. He returned to action in May following an eight-month spell on the sidelines due to a serious knee injury.

Rodri has helped the Citizens to four Premier League titles and won the Ballon d’Or in 2024.

Who else are Real Madrid considering as Kroos’s successor?

Rodri is not the only name on Real’s radar. AS claims that the Spanish giants are also looking at Inter Milan’s Nicolo Barella, Chelsea’s Enzo Fernandez, and Liverpool’s Alexis Mac Allister. However, all three midfielders are under long-term contracts and are key figures at their respective clubs.

Any deal for Fernandez or Mac Allister would reportedly require a nine-figure fee, making their arrivals at the Bernabeu unlikely at this stage.

This article was originally published on Fotbal Portal.