After Grealish’s exit: Manchester City targeting Real Madrid star in blockbuster move

Manchester City shakes up its attack by sending Jack Grealish to Everton on loan and selling Savinho to Tottenham, moves that open both financial and tactical space for a blockbuster signing.

Tense days are unfolding in England. Just days away from their Premier League debut, Manchester City is not only finalizing soccer preparations but also shaking up the transfer market. Alarms went off with a double departure: Jack Grealish’s loan move to Everton and Savinho’s sale to Tottenham. Two losses that leave a noticeable gap in the Citizens’ attack, but ones that are part of a calculated plan by Pep Guardiola.

These moves by City are anything but random. Far from improvisation, they appear to be strategic steps to clear the path—both sporting and financial—for a marquee signing that could shake the market: Rodrygo Goes, the Real Madrid forward.

The rumor gained traction when transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed that Manchester City “is considering the signing,” calling Rodrygo a “dream target.” Guardiola is reportedly “a huge admirer” of the Brazilian, whom he has already pursued in previous transfer windows.

Rodrygo remains under contract with Real Madrid until 2028, but his tense situation at the club could pave the way for an exit. The 24-year-old forward has completely lost prominence in the team following Kylian Mbappé’s arrival and Vinícius Júnior’s established role.

He ended last season without playing a single minute in the final stretch and now doesn’t appear to be in Xabi Alonso’s plans. In that sense, the Premier League could offer him the perfect stage to relaunch his career.

The price Real Madrid wants for Rodrygo

In this context, the main obstacle for City is Florentino Pérez. Real Madrid is reportedly only willing to let the player go for an offer in the €90–100 million range. While there are no formal negotiations yet, reports in England suggest that Manchester hopes to find some flexibility from the Spanish club.

It’s worth noting that City is not the only team interested in Rodrygo. The Brazilian has been one of the most sought-after names of the current transfer window. Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain, and Bayern Munich all explored the possibility of signing him but eventually moved on to other targets.

If Manchester City becomes his final destination, Rodrygo would still face tough internal competition for a starting spot. Jérémy Doku operates on the left flank, while Bernardo Silva, Phil Foden, and Oscar Bobb are also highly valued attacking options for Guardiola.