Real Madrid is keeping a close eye on a €50m Man United target who could be an alternative to Rodri.
It looked like Real Madrid were going to sign Rodri from Manchester City this summer after the 2024 Ballon d’Or winner started talks with the La Liga giants following Spain’s World Cup win in North America. But in a surprise twist, their rivals in El Clásico swooped in and Rodri will now be playing at Camp Nou this season.
Meanwhile, Jose Mourinho has been working hard this summer to strengthen his team, aiming to compete for both the La Liga and Champions League titles. However, after two less-than-impressive wins against Espanyol and Real Sociedad, where the midfield didn’t quite click the way Mourinho wanted, he’s now looking for a new option to fill that role.
Real Madrid was previously linked to Martin Zubimendi, Rodri’s international teammate. Another option is Arsenal’s star midfielder, who seems like the perfect fit, but the club isn’t keen on paying the high €90 million fee the Gunners want.
So, Real is turning their attention to more affordable options from Serie A. Reports say they’re interested in Manuel Locatelli from Juventus, who’s 28 and looking for a new challenge. Spanish news outlet AS Diario also says Real Madrid have their eye on Manu Kone, a player formerly linked with Manchester United.
Kone nearly joined the Red Devils earlier this summer, with Roma ready to sell the French midfielder for around €50 million. Madrid might see him as a great alternative after his strong World Cup showing for France. At 25, Kone played five games in the tournament, showing he can control the midfield from a defensive spot. He’s great at breaking up attacks, and while he’s skilled with the ball, he’s smart about passing it to teammates who are better at scoring—something he could do well at Real Madrid.