Real Madrid is preparing what could become the biggest signing of the summer by targeting Manchester City midfielder Rodri following his outstanding performances at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

According to journalist David Ornstein, the Spanish giants are operating under the belief that the Spain captain could join the club before the start of the new season. While formal negotiations between Real Madrid and Manchester City have yet to begin, confidence within the Madrid camp has reportedly grown after Rodri's spectacular World Cup campaign.

The 30-year-old midfielder was the heartbeat of Spain's title-winning team, starting all eight matches and captaining La Roja throughout the tournament. Although he did not score or register an assist, his leadership, tactical intelligence, and control in midfield earned him the Golden Ball as the tournament's best player.

Rodri's potential arrival would cap an ambitious transfer window for José Mourinho's side. Real Madrid has already strengthened its squad by signing Marc Cucurella, Denzel Dumfries, Ibrahima Konaté, and Bernardo Silva, significantly improving both its defense and midfield.

If the move is completed, Rodri would join a squad already featuring global stars such as Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior, Jude Bellingham, Federico Valverde, and Thibaut Courtois, creating one of the strongest teams in world football.

Manchester City, however, is not giving up easily. The Premier League champions remain hopeful that their midfield leader will stay at the Etihad Stadium, regardless of whether he signs a new contract.

With one of the world's best midfielders potentially on the move, Rodri's future is shaping up to be one of the defining storylines of the 2026 summer transfer window.

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