Rodrygo’s Future Uncertain as Manchester City Lead Premier League Chase
Rodrygo’s future at Real Madrid is emerging as one of the transfer window’s late storylines, with three Premier League giants keeping a close watch. All summer, it has been clear that any move would need to be player-driven, and now Liverpool, Arsenal, and Manchester City are circling. If the door opens, the Brazilian winger could become one of the summer’s biggest headlines.
Around Madrid, officials have been playing down the chances of a departure. However, whispers have grown louder, suggesting the right chain of events could trigger a scramble for his signature. Liverpool may turn to him if their pursuit of Alexander Isak collapses, Arsenal see him as the final upgrade to their attack, while City—long-time admirers—could revisit a deal if Jack Grealish and Savinho depart.
Arsenal have been the most consistently linked in recent weeks, with Eberechi Eze also on their shortlist. However, their inability to move on Leandro Trossard or Gabriel Martinelli has proven a major stumbling block.
Real Madrid are considering selling at least one player before the window closes at the start of September. Ferland Mendy, David Alaba, and Dani Ceballos have all been mentioned as possible exits, but at present, Rodrygo is the closest to the door. Following the Club World Cup, the 24-year-old is not expected to play a key role next season under Xabi Alonso, with Vinícius Júnior, Arda Güler, and Franco Mastantuono ahead of him in the pecking order. The emergence of young striker Gonzalo García has further limited his prospects.
If Rodrygo does leave, the Premier League looks his most likely destination. According to CaughtOffside, Manchester City have outlined a €100 million package for the Brazil international, consisting of an initial €80m plus €20m in bonuses. Talks with Real Madrid have not yet begun, but City view him as an ideal replacement for Grealish and Savinho—fast, skilful, and capable of turning games in one-on-one situations.
“Rodrygo’s possible arrival at Manchester City is seen as a high-impact strategic move,” reports the Spanish source.
Liverpool and Arsenal remain in the race, but City’s readiness to meet Madrid’s valuation could put them in pole position. Real Madrid will still hold talks with Rodrygo, whose Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) is €98m, before making a final decision. But as the transfer window enters its decisive weeks, one thing is clear—Manchester City have made their intentions known.
