As the summer transfer window enters its final stretch, Manchester City have shifted gears. While their recruitment earlier this summer was relatively low-key, a series of squad exits has set the stage for a blockbuster move. According to Spain’s AS, Pep Guardiola has made Real Madrid forward Rodrygo his top attacking target and is ready to table a €100 million offer. If completed, this would make Rodrygo another “nine-figure signing” under Guardiola’s reign—something very few managers in football have achieved.
Squad Clear-Out Paves the Way for Big Signing
Initially, Rodrygo wasn’t on City’s priority list. However, recent developments have changed the picture:
- Jack Grealish → Loan to Everton (Completed)
- James McAtee → €22M transfer to Nottingham Forest (Completed)
- Savinho → Close to €50M move to Tottenham (Advanced talks)
These moves will free up two attacking spots while generating significant funds: McAtee’s sale brought in €22M, Grealish’s exit freed up around €400K in weekly wages, and Savinho’s potential departure would add over €50M. In this context, a major signing feels inevitable, and Rodrygo would both strengthen the squad and fill a tactical need.
Real Madrid’s Stance & Player’s Willingness
Real Madrid value Rodrygo at €100M, with the player seeking a €300K weekly salary. The Bernabéu hierarchy are unlikely to stand in his way if a suitable offer arrives and the player wishes to leave. City’s plan is to offer €80M guaranteed plus €20M in add-ons to entice Madrid.
Rodrygo, 24, joined Real from Santos in 2019 and has grown into a key first-team figure over six seasons. However, Kylian Mbappé’s arrival has pushed him down the pecking order. Blessed with pace, technique, finishing, and creativity, he can play both on the wings and as a central striker—an ideal modern attacking profile.
Perfect Fit for Guardiola’s System
Rodrygo is open to a Premier League move, especially the prospect of working under Guardiola. Pep’s possession-based style, fluid positional rotations, and multi-pronged attack align perfectly with Rodrygo’s technical strengths. Over the past decade, City’s squad depth and quality have matched Madrid’s, making this a potential opportunity for Rodrygo to secure a regular starting role.
Premier League Rivals Also Interested
Arsenal and Liverpool are also monitoring the Brazilian forward:
- Arsenal: Prefer a loan-to-buy arrangement to minimize risk.
- Liverpool: Will turn to Rodrygo if they fail to sign Newcastle striker Alexander Isak.
Still, from the current pace of negotiations and financial commitment, Guardiola’s City appear to be leading the race. If completed, this move would be a major boost to City’s attack and one of the most high-profile signings in the Premier League this season.
