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- 2 hours ago
Man City to send England's next superstar to Real Madrid in Rodrygo deal
Tom Weber
- Updated: 23 Aug 2025 19:36 BST
- 4 min read
News
Real Madrid will use the money from a potential Rodrygo sale to Manchester City to sign a new midfielder, with Crystal Palace star Adam Wharton among their top targets.
Los Blancos have backed new head coach Xabi Alonso in the market this summer, signing Trent Alexander-Arnold, Dean Huijsen, Alvaro Carreras and Franco Mastantuono to the tune of €167.5 million.
However, there is one clear profile that is still lacking from the Spaniard's squad: a playmaker. Toni Kroos retired last year and was not replaced. Luka Modric has now also left the club, joining AC Milan, which has only exacerbated the problem.
Current ETV
Luka Modrić
M, DM (C), AM (R)
Milan
Luka Modrić
M, DM (C), AM (R)
Milan
ETV Range
€5M - €6.8M
The emergence of Thiago Pitarch in pre-season has provided some excitement, but the midfielder is only 18 and is unlikely to establish himself as a regular starter anytime soon, despite being rewarded with a bumper new contract for his promising development.
Real Madrid are therefore scouring the midfielder market. PSG superstar Vitinha has emerged as a target for 2026, but he is not the player that has caught the eye of Juni Calafat and company.
Real Madrid want Wharton
According to AS, Crystal Palace youngster Adam Wharton is quickly emerging as a priority target for Real Madrid, with the 21-year-old's combination of energy and playmaking ability making him a hugely exciting target.
Indeed, Wharton is regarded as the future of England's midfield, and it would be fitting for him to play alongside Alexander-Arnold and Jude Bellingham at club level. However, prising away from Palace won't be easy.
It is claimed that the Eagles won't listen to offers below €80m, which means that a potential move is only realistic next year. Oliver Glasner would probably quit on the spot if Palace were to sell Eberechi Eze, Marc Guehi and Wharton in the same window, judging by his recent comments!
Nevertheless, the report does not entirely rule out a move for Wharton this summer, but this would hinge Real Madrid managing to sell Rodrygo to raise funds.
The Brazilian is still not opening the door to an exit, and his main suitors, Man City, have also not yet agreed a deal with Tottenham for Savinho, although it is expected that Spurs will place an improved offer north of €70m shortly.
A sale of Savinho would see Man City pursue Rodrygo, who could, in turn, free up the funds for Real Madrid to pursue Wharton this summer, or more likely, next year.
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