Better than Pedri and Wirtz, Maldini leaks Madrid’s next top-tier

Real Madrid, the Spanish giants with a legacy of signing world-class players, are once again in the spotlight as they prepare for the upcoming transfer windows. The club is looking to strengthen two key areas of the pitch—defense and midfield—and fans are already buzzing with excitement and speculation about which new stars could arrive at the Santiago Bernabéu.

As always, Madrid is not just aiming to fill positions—they are looking for game-changers, players who can help the club dominate both in Spain and across Europe. Reports from Spain, including insights from popular football analyst Maldini, suggest that the club’s eyes are set on Manchester City’s Rodri, widely regarded as one of the best defensive midfielders in the world today.

Maldini Drops a Big Hint About Rodri

Julio Maldonado, popularly known as Maldini, recently spoke about Real Madrid’s transfer ambitions on his YouTube channel. According to him, while the club may be targeting several defenders this summer, the real long-term goal is to find a “superstar” for the midfield—someone who can control games, dominate possession, and bring balance to Madrid’s attacking power.

Maldini boldly claimed that the perfect player for Madrid’s midfield is Rodri from Manchester City. “Rodri would be the man, but not for this summer—rather for the next season,” he said. That statement alone has caused a stir among fans, who now believe Madrid is quietly preparing a big move for the Spanish midfielder.

Why Rodri Is the Ideal Fit

Rodri is not just any player—he is the heartbeat of Manchester City’s midfield. Known for his strength, intelligence, calmness on the ball, and ability to read the game, Rodri plays a role that many call the “organizer” or “engine” of the team. Since joining City, he has helped Pep Guardiola’s side dominate the Premier League and even win the Champions League.

For Madrid, signing Rodri would be like bringing in a younger version of Xabi Alonso or Casemiro—someone who doesn’t just do the dirty work in midfield but also builds play from the back and controls the rhythm of the game.

Rodri is 27 years old, in the prime of his career, and still has a contract at City until 2027. However, he has not signed a new deal yet, and this gives Madrid hope. In 2026, he will have just one year left on his contract, making it easier for Madrid to negotiate a deal with Manchester City, especially if the player himself is interested.

Rodri’s Madrid Dreams?

There are whispers that Rodri himself is open to the idea of joining Real Madrid. As a Spaniard, playing at the Bernabéu might be something he’s always dreamed about. After winning everything at City, a return to Spain to lead Madrid’s midfield could be the next exciting chapter in his career.

And with former midfielder Xabi Alonso expected to take over the managerial role at Madrid in the near future, Rodri could find a coach who truly understands his style and role.

Madrid’s Current Midfield Puzzle

While Rodri remains a longer-term target, Real Madrid is also looking for a short-term solution. The team has been stretched in midfield, and players like Luka Modrić and Toni Kroos are nearing the end of their careers. There’s a clear need for fresh legs and creativity.

However, signing top creators like Frenkie de Jong (Barcelona) or Vitinha (PSG) seems almost impossible due to either rivalry, high transfer fees, or player unavailability. So the club is treading carefully, trying to find smart, affordable, and effective options.

Defensive Additions Also on the Cards

Apart from the midfield, Real Madrid also plans to bring in up to three new defenders. This is part of a broader strategy to refresh the squad and prepare for the Club World Cup and other competitions in the coming season.

With injuries and aging defenders becoming an issue, fresh signings in defense will help the team maintain its solid record at the back.

What Lies Ahead for Real Madrid

Real Madrid is not just building a squad for next season—they are building a team that will dominate for the next decade. Signing someone like Rodri would send a clear message to the rest of Europe: Madrid is still the club where the best players come to shine.

For now, fans will have to wait and see if the club will make any surprise midfield signings this summer. But one thing is certain: Rodri remains Madrid’s dream signing, and if all goes according to plan, we may see him in the famous white jersey in 2026.

In Summary:

Real Madrid wants to strengthen defense and midfield this summer.

Spanish expert Maldini suggests Rodri is the top target, but not until 2026.

Rodri has not renewed his contract with Manchester City, opening a door for a move.

Madrid is searching for short-term midfield help, but the real prize is Rodri.

The club is planning carefully, under the leadership of Hansi Flick and possibly Xabi Alonso in the near future.

Madrid is once again planning something big—don’t be surprised if Rodri becomes their midfield general sooner than expected.