Real Madrid forward Rodrygo is at the center of a transfer storm, with Liverpool and Manchester City locked in a fierce battle to secure his signature.
The 24-year-old Brazilian, sidelined in Real Madrid’s 1-0 La Liga victory over Osasuna on August, is reportedly seeking a new challenge in the Premier League, driven by limited starts under new manager Xabi Alonso.
Rodrygo, with 68 goals in 270 appearances for Real Madrid and a trophy cabinet boasting two Champions League titles and three La Liga crowns, has seen his role diminish since Kylian Mbappe’s arrival. His desire to play regularly on the left wing, currently occupied by Mbappe and Vinicius Junior, has fueled speculation about a move. Liverpool view Rodrygo as a prime target to bolster their attack, especially after Luis Diaz’s recent departure to Bayern Munich.
Manchester City, meanwhile, see him as a potential replacement for Savinho, who is in advanced talks with Tottenham Hotspur following a rejected €50 million bid.
Brazilian journalist Jorge Nicola amplified the rumors on his YouTube channel, stating, “Rodrygo is set for the Premier League. Liverpool and Manchester City are the frontrunners, with Pep Guardiola long admiring the player, while Liverpool aim to make him a cornerstone of their attack.”
Nicola added that the “atmosphere for Rodrygo at Real Madrid has been strained since Alonso’s arrival,” pointing to his unused substitute role against Osasuna as a tipping point for the player, who is valued at 90 to 100 million euros with a contract until 2028.
Alonso, however, downplayed the situation post-match, saying, “It was just one game. If Rodrygo’s still not playing regularly in three months, then we can reassess. I count on him for this season, and we’re not reading too much into one match.”
Despite this, sources indicate Real Madrid are open to offers, with president Florentino Perez reportedly willing to negotiate for a fee around 100 million euros.
Recent X posts have kept the story alive with transfer expert Fabrizio Romano posting, “Zero minutes again for Rodrygo tonight against Osasuna. Manchester City want Rodrygo but only if Savinho joins Tottenham, a move currently stalled by City’s hierarchy.”
Another post claimed, “Rodrygo is open to joining Manchester City and would not close the door immediately,” highlighting his status as their “top candidate.” Liverpool’s interest was underscored by DeadlineDayLive, stating, “Real Madrid have informed Rodrygo they’re ready to listen to offers, with Liverpool and Manchester City in the race.”
Manchester City’s interest hinges on squad dynamics, with Jack Grealish’s loan move to Everton already confirmed, freeing up funds. If Savinho’s transfer to Tottenham progresses, City are prepared to offer 80 million euros plus 20 million in add-ons, according to Fichajes.
Liverpool, meanwhile, are prioritizing attacking reinforcements, with manager Arne Slot reportedly keen to pair Rodrygo with new signing Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt.
Rodrygo’s camp has also held talks with Arsenal, Chelsea, PSG, and Bayern Munich, but the Premier League remains his preferred destination.
With Real Madrid open to a sale and Rodrygo eager for regular minutes, the coming days promise intense negotiations as Liverpool and Manchester City vie to land the Brazilian star, whose versatility and proven quality could transform either side’s attack.
