Manchester City appear to be gearing up for a major bid to sign Real Madrid’s Brazilian winger, Rodrygo, as they look to strengthen their attacking options in the January transfer window.
The 23-year-old has been linked with a move away from the Bernabeu recently, and now City seem ready to join the race.
Liverpool and Arsenal are also interested in Rodrygo, keeping a close eye on any developments. His performances have impressed, making him a hot prospect among Premier League clubs, with City reportedly keen to lead the charge to bring him to England.
Reports suggest that City may be preparing a staggering bid of €150 million (£126.2m or $163.2m) for Rodrygo. If Madrid were to accept, it would set a new Premier League transfer record, underscoring City’s determination to add the Brazilian star to their squad.
Rodrygo’s versatility makes him an appealing option for Pep Guardiola. Capable of playing on either wing or even as a center-forward, he’s scored 57 goals and provided 43 assists in 229 games for Madrid, highlighting his consistent impact on the field.
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However, Real Madrid isn’t likely to let Rodrygo go easily. The club reportedly sees him as a key player for both their current team and future plans. With Real Madrid’s ambitions high, any negotiations would likely be challenging for City.
City have already assembled a strong group of wingers, including Jack Grealish, Jeremy Doku, Phil Foden, and Savinho. Yet sources indicate that they’re still looking to reinforce their wide positions to add depth and ensure they have ample options.
Raphinha from Barcelona is another winger who reportedly tops City’s list. The former Leeds United player has been in excellent form for Barcelona this season, scoring 10 goals and providing nine assists in just 14 matches, making him an attractive prospect.
While Barcelona considers Raphinha essential, the club’s financial issues might force them to consider a significant bid next year. This situation could open the door for City if they decide to shift their focus from Rodrygo.
As for Rodrygo, he’s previously stated his commitment to Real Madrid. Over the summer, he expressed his happiness at the club, reassuring fans that his remarks about enjoying his time at Madrid weren’t a sign he planned to leave soon.
Aside from their search for a winger, City are also exploring options for a new attacking midfielder to potentially succeed Kevin De Bruyne. The Belgian star’s contract ends this season, and speculation suggests he may move to either the Saudi Pro League or MLS.
Two names on City’s radar for midfield reinforcements are Florian Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen and Jamal Musiala from Bayern Munich. Both players are among the most exciting young talents in Europe, with several top clubs pursuing them.
With Wirtz and Musiala’s transfers expected to cost over £100 million, City might have to choose carefully between their top targets, making it less likely they’ll splurge on Rodrygo as well, despite initial reports suggesting otherwise.