Real Madrid News
Real Madrid target could leave Manchester City following Guardiola exit – report
Pep Guardiola is all set to leave Manchester City at the end of the current season, bringing an end to an illustrious ten-year long stint at the Etihad Stadium.
His departure would mark the end of one era and the beginning of another. Because Guardiola’s exit could also trigger departures among several of the club’s star players.
Rodri could follow suit
According to Cadena SER, one of those Manchester City stars who could potentially leave this summer is Rodri, a player who has been linked with Real Madrid for a long time.
The Merengues are on the lookout for reinforcements in midfield and the Spanish international has long been admired at Valdebebas.
However, there had been no movement from the club’s part so far as they believed a deal could be difficult, leading to the midfielder discussing a renewal at the Etihad Stadium.
But, Guardiola’s impending departure could change things, with Rodri now a possible candidate to follow the manager out of the club.
Rodri open to Real Madrid move
Rodri, for his part, had already hinted at his openness to move to Real Madrid during the previous international break.
“Having played for Atletico Madrid doesn’t stop me from playing for Real Madrid; there are other players who have gone down that path. Not immediately, but over time. You can’t turn down the best clubs in the world,” he said.
With his contract expiring in 2027, the Spanish midfield general could also be available for a reasonable transfer fee, making him an enticing target.
Real Madrid, though, must finalise their managerial situation, with Jose Mourinho being touted to return to the Santiago Bernabeu.
Once he arrives, the topic of Rodri could be discussed and based on his inputs, the club could decide whether to move for him or not.
One of the main objectives for Real Madrid this summer was to bring in a new central midfielder capable of controlling the tempo and dictating the play from the middle.
A move for Rodri was in the works before the Spain captain decided to sign for FC Barcelona. The Merengues assessed several other options, but ended up not signing any player, with Jose Mourinho deciding to use Bernardo Silva in the double pivot.
One of the midfielders that Real Madrid were looking at as an option was Adam Wharton of Crystal Palace.
The England international has been on the club’s radar for a while now, but the Premier League club never opened the door for a summer departure.
Wharton could be on the market in 2027
However, now, according to The Guardian (h/t Bernabeu Digital), That stance could change next year, as that Palace would be prepared to consider selling Wharton during the next summer transfer window.
As mentioned already, Real Madrid have closely followed Wharton’s situation throughout the summer, although the club ultimately decided against making any further additions to their midfield.
Manchester City and Chelsea also showed serious interest in signing the England international during the summer. However, Crystal Palace were unwilling to sell, effectively ruling out a move for the midfielder.
But it appears that they could open the doors for Wharton to leave in the summer of 2027, potentially paving the way for Real Madrid to make a move.
Real Madrid continue to monitor Wharton
Real Madrid are expected to keep a close eye on Wharton’s progress ahead of the 2027 market. Should they decide they need another high-quality midfielder, the 22-year-old could once again emerge as a candidate.
Manchester City may be less likely to return for Wharton after strengthening their midfield significantly this summer.
Chelsea, however, could remain a potential competitor after failing to add a player in the position during the latest window.
For now, Wharton will remain at Crystal Palace, but the club’s willingness to consider a sale next summer means the midfielder could become a realistic option for Real Madrid in 2027.
