Champions League rival ready to break the bank for Real Madrid superstar

Jack Grealish’s expected loan move to Everton and Savinho’s likely switch to Tottenham could leave a glaring gap in Manchester City’s attack — one that Pep Guardiola may want to fill with a blockbuster signing.

Real Madrid’s Rodrygo is Guardiola’s “dream target”

According to transfer insider Fabrizio Romano, City are seriously considering a move for Rodrygo, the 24-year-old Brazilian forward who has been a key figure at Real Madrid and is under contract until 2028. Romano describes Rodrygo as City’s “dream target” and notes that Guardiola is a huge admirer of his game.

If the deal goes through, Rodrygo would face competition mainly from Jeremy Doku on the left wing, but he’s also capable of playing on the right, where Guardiola currently has Bernardo Silva, Phil Foden, and Oscar Bobb. Academy product James McAtee is also poised to leave for Nottingham Forest.

How much could Real Madrid get from City for Rodrygo?

City have already spent close to $200 million this summer, but the estimated $98–110 million price tag for Rodrygo — who joined Madrid from Santos in 2018 for around $49 million — could be worth it.

He’s coming off a strong 2024-25 season, contributing 24 goals across 54 appearances, and would give the Premier League champions another world-class weapon as they push to retain their title.