As the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup edges closer, Real Madrid is preparing to make a major statement—one that could redefine its long-term midfield plans. The Spanish giants are targeting a transformative signing, one who doesn’t fit their typical transfer mold. The mystery surrounding this pursuit has only grown with recent reports hinting at a bold move at the heart of their summer strategy.
While the spotlight has largely been on young signings and Real Madrid’s gradual “Spanish-ization” project under Xabi Alonso, it now appears that Los Blancos are eyeing an established name to anchor their midfield—an effort that would not only fill the void left by Toni Kroos but also reset the tempo of their squad for years to come.
Madrid’s 2024-25 campaign has been anything but inspiring. Despite Kylian Mbappe’s resurgence, much of the squad has underperformed, casting doubts over the entire project. In particular, the midfield has struggled to find rhythm and consistency following Kroos’ departure.
“There was a lack of direction in midfield,” reports Spanish outlet Cadena SER, citing Real Madrid’s internal concerns. While Dani Ceballos and Luka Modric attempted to plug the gap, their contributions lacked the sustained influence needed to carry the team through big moments.
The Rodri revelation: Madrid’s ultimate dream
Amidst all the speculation, one name has emerged as the “dream signing”—Rodri, Manchester City’s midfield engine and reigning Ballon d’Or winner. According to Cadena SER, Real Madrid has had the Spaniard on its radar for months, and while the deal is described as “improbable,” it’s not being ruled out completely.
“The ultimate dream is Rodri. For that to happen, we’ll have to see how the Ballon d’Or winner returns from injury. Until then, it’s impossible. Well, not impossible—improbable,” SER Deportivos reported.
The 28-year-old Spaniard recently returned to action after a seven-month absence due to a cruciate ligament injury. His recovery will be closely monitored by Madrid’s technical staff, as the club evaluates whether he can be the foundation of their midfield renaissance.
Breaking its own rules
Signing Rodri would mark a rare exception to Real Madrid’s well-known transfer policy, which typically focuses on acquiring young talent as long-term investments. Players like Jude Bellingham and Endrick fit the mold of early-twenties or teenage prospects. At 28, Rodri represents a deviation from that norm—but one the club may justify given the scarcity of elite midfielders and the uniqueness of his profile.
Rodri, a Madrid native, would also further the club’s push for Spanish talent. With Dean Huijsen and Alvaro Carreras already signed, and right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold reportedly on his way, the 28-year-old midfielder would be the crown jewel in the Whites’ Spanish-centric evolution under Alonso.
The wildcard, as always, could be Florentino Perez. “If Florentino Perez gets involved, the impossible starts to look improbable, and the improbable starts to look like a done deal,” Cadena SER noted. With the Club World Cup starting on June 14, and Rodri’s contract situation under scrutiny, the club could make their move during or immediately after the tournament.
