The name of Rodri Hernández, a key figure at Manchester City, is once again echoing through the halls of the Santiago Bernabéu. Just a few months ago, the Real Madrid board seemed to rule him out, but now his profile is back under consideration, especially as rumors grow about a possible departure of Vinícius Júnior.

The 29-year-old Spanish midfielder and current Ballon d’Or winner is one of the few players for whom the Madrid club would consider making a major financial investment. However, sources at Valdebebas deny any immediate offer and refute the £115 million bid some English outlets have reported.

Rodri's contract situation could be the key. Real Madrid knows that by next summer, the player will be entering the final year of his deal—potentially opening the door to negotiations if City fails to renew him. Still, they also understand that the Premier League champions won’t make things easy, making this a medium-term target rather than an imminent move.

Rodri’s fitness, the big question mark in Madrid

Beyond the financial aspect, Madrid's biggest concern is the player’s physical condition. His recent recovery from a serious knee injury raises questions within the club, which wants to evaluate his performance this season before making any definitive decisions.

Despite the interest in Rodri, Real Madrid remains confident in its current midfield. Players like Aurélien Tchouaméni, Eduardo Camavinga, and even young talent Arda Güler could fill the role, although none of them have the same profile as the Spanish international. Moreover, new manager Xabi Alonso is reportedly pushing for a natural holding midfielder to anchor his tactical setup.

In the midst of a squad overhaul, Florentino Pérez’s club has made bold moves with signings like Dean Huijsen, Álvaro Carreras, Franco Mastantuono, and Trent Alexander-Arnold, mainly reinforcing a defense that suffered heavily from injuries last season. However, with legends like Luka Modric leaving and key players such as Rodrygo Goes and Dani Ceballos potentially on the way out, Madrid is keeping a close eye on the market.

With LaLiga just around the corner and the squad still unfinished, Rodri’s signing remains uncertain—but his name hasn’t been forgotten at Chamartín. Could he be the marquee signing of next summer?