AS: Real will spare no expense to sign a midfield star, Rodri is the Top Target

According to AS, Real Madrid are prepared to spend big this summer to sign a top-class midfielder. Club executives believe the time has come to bring in a high-profile “brain-type” player to orchestrate the midfield, rather than opting for free transfers or low-cost deals.

Luka Modrić’s departure, despite his willingness to take a pay cut and accept a bench role, was a club decision—part of a generational overhaul. This move signals Madrid’s intent: a major midfield signing is coming.

Rodri, the 28-year-old Manchester City midfielder, is the top choice. Despite a significant injury setback in the past, club executives remain highly interested. Rodri has always expressed a favorable view toward playing at the Santiago Bernabéu. Negotiations with City would not be simple, but Madrid believe it is worth the effort. His performance in the UEFA Nations League Final Four will be closely watched.

Other targets include:

• Alexis Mac Allister (Liverpool): Highly appreciated by Madrid but would cost around €90 million. His contract runs until 2028. After the recent Arda Güler deal, relations with Liverpool are stable but not ideal.

• Tijjani Reijnders (AC Milan): A favorite of Madrid’s scouts. He just renewed until 2030, and his price tag is close to €80 million.

• Enzo Fernández (Chelsea): Keen interest from the player’s side; contact has been made. But Chelsea consider him untouchable and are unwilling to negotiate, with a possible fee exceeding €100 million.

For more affordable options, Madrid are also monitoring:

• Angelo Stiller (Stuttgart): A breakout player in the Bundesliga, left-footed, 1.83m tall, primarily a deep-lying playmaker.

• Hugo Larsson (Frankfurt): Right-footed, 1.87m tall, more of a box-to-box or attacking midfielder.

Both cost around €40 million and are seen as promising bets for the future, though it’s unclear whether they can handle the pressure of playing for Madrid.

The departure of Modrić has left Madrid lacking a true midfield general. While the team is full of powerful midfielders like Tchouaméni, Camavinga, and Valverde, none control the rhythm quite like Modrić. That’s why the club is determined to act decisively this summer—even if it means a major financial investment. This is a top priority, and it won’t wait.