Tuesday, July 21, 2026

City and Liverpool Circle Brazilian Winger as Madrid Star Eyes Premier League Exit

January 26, 2026
City and Liverpool Circle Brazilian Winger as Madrid Star Eyes Premier League Exit
City and Liverpool Circle Brazilian Winger as Madrid Star Eyes Premier League Exit

Real Madrid's Rodrygo appears set for a Premier League departure, with both Manchester City and Liverpool having tabled formal offers to secure the Brazilian's services.

The 25-year-old has endured a frustrating campaign at the Bernabéu, restricted to just six league starts across 24 appearances in all competitions. His overall contribution this term reads a modest three goals and four assists, with the left-winger clearly hungry for the consistent opportunities that have eluded him in Spain.

According to reports emanating from the Spanish capital, two concrete proposals now sit before the Brazilian. Liverpool's offer comes in at approximately €80 million, while City have upped the ante to €90 million—a €10 million gap that translates to roughly £8.6 million in sterling terms.

The appeal of both clubs appears straightforward. Rodrygo apparently sees himself thriving in either Manchester or Merseyside, where he would occupy a genuine starting berth operating from his favoured left-wing position. Both outfits can offer the tactical framework and guaranteed minutes that Real Madrid simply cannot provide this season.

The Spanish giants have effectively conceded defeat on this front. Club officials accept their winger's dissatisfaction and recognise that, barring unforeseen circumstances, he faces continued marginalisation in Carlo Ancelotti's plans. Rodrygo has formally requested that Madrid entertain offers and broker the most advantageous arrangement possible.

The Long Game

Transfer analyst Fabrizio Romano suggested back in November that a summer 2026 departure remained plausible, though he dismissed any January speculation linking Rodrygo to either Chelsea or Arsenal. Romano noted the Brazilian's recent struggles—a goalless drought spanning 30 games—whilst acknowledging both club and player might entertain a move should an appropriate proposal materialise. City had previously pursued the winger during the previous summer window.

Financial considerations, however, could yet prove problematic. Former City advisor Stefan Borson outlined the practical obstacles facing any potential suitor. Real Madrid would scarcely gift the player away, instead demanding substantial contributions toward his wages for the remainder of the campaign. Such arrangements typically necessitate the buying club absorbing around half of his salary through season's end—a considerable financial commitment that narrows the field considerably.

Borson suggested that only a top-six Premier League destination would genuinely appeal to Rodrygo, limiting realistic options. City's interest might hinge on whether Savinho departs for Spurs, though such a scenario appeared unlikely when he spoke in November. The consensus pointed toward a summer conclusion proving more probable than any midseason resolution.

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