Real Madrid continue to evaluate their long-term midfield options as the club looks ahead to a new era without Toni Kroos and Luka Modric. Despite the noticeable impact Kroos’ departure had last season, Los Blancos opted against signing a replacement, choosing instead to trust the current squad.

However, manager Xabi Alonso has long expressed interest in bringing in a new controlling midfielder — a profile Madrid clearly lacked last season. While several names were considered, the club believed there was no available midfielder worthy of a major investment.

One of the few exceptions was Rodri Hernández, the Manchester City and Spain superstar widely regarded as the best holding midfielder in the world when fully fit. But his serious knee injury complicated any potential move. Now, there is a new development that could change the landscape entirely.

Rodri Contract Talks at Standstill

Manchester City had opened talks with Rodri over a new contract during the summer, but according to reports from DM (via Diario AS), those negotiations have now been paused.

City want to evaluate Rodri’s recovery from his cruciate ligament injury before committing to a long-term deal. The hesitation means Rodri is approaching a decisive moment:

• Next summer he will have only one year left on his contract
• His future will be wide open if no extension is agreed

This situation is being monitored very closely in Madrid.

Door Opens for Real Madrid

With contract talks stalled, Real Madrid are now in a position of opportunity. The club has always admired Rodri, who fits the ideal profile to anchor Madrid’s midfield for the next several years.

But Los Blancos are also cautious. Rodri will be 30 next summer, and they want to see whether he can return to his peak after a serious knee injury. His workload this season reflects the uncertainty:

• 415 minutes played
• 8 games featured
• 9 games missed due to recurring physical problems

Madrid’s scouting department will continue monitoring him closely throughout the season before deciding whether to pursue a blockbuster move.

MadrizistasZone Comment

Rodri would be the perfect replacement for Kroos in terms of control, intelligence, and balance. But Madrid must be smart — investing heavily in a 30-year-old recovering from a major knee injury carries risks. If Rodri returns to his best, then next summer could be the decisive moment for both the player and Real Madrid.