In a transfer saga that could reshape the Premier League landscape, Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has set his sights on Real Madrid’s electrifying forward Rodrygo, a €100 million-rated superstar who has become the Spaniard’s “big obsession.” As City navigate a challenging 2024-25 season, marked by a fifth-place finish and an early Champions League exit, Guardiola is spearheading a squad overhaul, and the 24-year-old Brazilian is at the heart of his vision. Reports indicate that City have initiated contact with Rodrygo’s representatives, signaling their intent to lure the three-time La Liga and two-time Champions League winner to the Etihad Stadium. “It would be fulfilling a dream for Pep,” a source close to the negotiations revealed, underscoring Guardiola’s determination to bolster his attack with a player of Rodrygo’s caliber.
Rodrygo’s journey at Real Madrid has been a blend of brilliance and frustration. Since joining from Santos in 2019, he has contributed 70 goals and 59 assists in 252 appearances, playing a pivotal role in Madrid’s 2023-24 La Liga and Champions League triumphs. However, the arrival of Kylian Mbappé in 2024 relegated Rodrygo to just 22 La Liga starts last season, with Vinicius Jr. and Mbappé dominating the left flank—his preferred position. “I’m happy at Real Madrid, but the competition is tough,” Rodrygo admitted earlier this year, hinting at his openness to a move. With new Madrid manager Xabi Alonso giving the green light to sell, valuing him at €100 million (£87m, $116.4m), City see an opportunity to capitalize on Rodrygo’s desire for a starring role. The Brazilian’s versatility across the front line and his proven big-game pedigree make him an ideal fit for Guardiola’s fluid system.
Manchester City’s interest in Rodrygo comes amid a broader squad rebuild. The departure of Kevin De Bruyne, whose contract expired in June 2025, and Jack Grealish’s diminished role—starting just seven Premier League games last season—have left gaps in City’s attack. Grealish, now transfer-listed for £40 million, was reportedly offered in a swap deal for Rodrygo, though Madrid rejected the proposal outright. “Alonso trusts Rodrygo and wants cash, not swaps,” a Madrid insider noted, highlighting the club’s firm stance. City’s January spending spree, which included Tijjani Reijnders and Rayan Aït-Nouri, reflects their financial muscle, but Rodrygo’s acquisition would be a statement of intent, potentially dwarfing their £100 million record signing of Grealish in 2021.
The race for Rodrygo is far from straightforward. Liverpool, eyeing a replacement for Luis Diaz, who is set to join Bayern Munich, have also held talks with his agents. Arsenal, long-time admirers, see Rodrygo as a marquee addition to their attack, while Tottenham and Paris Saint-Germain are monitoring the situation. “Rodrygo’s camp has been clear—he wants a club where he’s the focal point,” a source close to the player stated, giving City an edge with their promise of regular minutes under Guardiola’s tutelage. The manager’s admiration for Rodrygo dates back to 2024, when he unsuccessfully tried to sway the forward, only for Rodrygo to recommit to Madrid. Now, with Alonso reshaping the squad, the door has cracked open again.
Guardiola’s obsession with Rodrygo stems from his belief that the Brazilian can elevate City’s attack, which faltered during a 13-match stretch last season where they won just once. “Rodrygo brings pace, creativity, and clutch moments,” Guardiola reportedly told club executives, envisioning him as a long-term successor to De Bruyne’s playmaking flair. Rodrygo’s standout performances, including a brace in Madrid’s 2024 Champions League final win, showcase his ability to deliver under pressure. City’s recent meeting with Rodrygo’s father, a key figure in his career decisions, underscores their proactive approach, though no formal negotiations have begun.
As City prepare for their FA Cup final against Crystal Palace and the upcoming Premier League campaign, Rodrygo’s potential arrival could redefine their trajectory. With Erling Haaland leading the line and young talents like Phil Foden and Cole Palmer—who returned in a stunning €170 million deal from Chelsea—Rodrygo could form a devastating attacking trio. The transfer, if completed, would likely break the British record set by Liverpool’s £150 million signing of Florian Wirtz. For now, City’s “contacts” with Rodrygo’s camp signal the start of a high-stakes pursuit, one that could see Guardiola land his dream signing and restore the Citizens to their perch atop English football.
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