Real Madrid eye World Cup Golden Ball Rodri as Man United target

Real Madrid have moved to secure Rodri, the reigning World Cup Golden Ball winner, despite his current link to Manchester United, with club president Florentino Perez now openly entertaining the prospect. The Spanish giants view the midfielder as the ideal fix for the chaos that has plagued their midfield this season.

Rodri’s market value has surged following his World Cup triumph, prompting Real Madrid to consider him the perfect remedy for their midfield disarray. Club officials also reckon that offloading a high‑earner would ease the financial burden, especially given the sizable fee Manchester City anticipate demanding for the player.

To fund the Rodri deal, Real Madrid have pinpointed Aurelien Tchouameni as a possible departure, a player long linked with Manchester United. Manchester United, often referred to as the Red Devils, have formally enquired about Tchouameni, estimating a fee close to €80 million (£68 million) for the French midfielder this summer.

Although Tchouameni’s contract renewal has been agreed in principle with Real, the paperwork remains unsigned, leaving the door open for United’s pursuit. Real Madrid have signalled willingness to sell the Frenchman if it facilitates the higher‑priority acquisition of Rodri.

The push for Rodri could also prompt manager José Mourinho to sideline Tchouameni in his squad plans. The period before the midfielder’s return to training will be decisive in determining whether he stays, renews, or departs.

If the transfer materialises, Real Madrid would secure a World Cup Golden Ball winner to stabilise their centre of the park, while Manchester United would miss out on both a Rodri target and a potential Casemiro‑type replacement in Tchouameni. Manchester City, meanwhile, stand to receive a substantial fee for the departing midfielder.