Manchester City have prioritized a new deal for 2024 Ballon d’Or winner Rodri to ward off intensifying interest from Real Madrid and Barcelona. Simultaneously, the club has reportedly “green-lit” a massive summer move for Nottingham Forest standout Elliot Anderson, whose performance at the Etihad this week all but confirmed his status as City’s top summer target.
The Rodri Extension: Peace of Mind
Despite links to a return to his hometown of Madrid, sources indicate that Rodri is “keen” to extend his stay in Manchester beyond his current 2027 expiry.
- Valuation: Viewed internally as “indispensable,” second only to Erling Haaland in value.
- The Real Madrid Factor: While Los Blancos are admirers, recent reports suggest their focus may be shifting toward City’s younger prodigy, Nico O’Reilly, due to City’s high asking price for Rodri.
- Timeline: City hopes to have the deal signed before the season’s end to avoid entering the final year of his contract.
The Rise of Elliot Anderson
Elliot Anderson has become the “talk of the Premier League” after a breakout season under Vitor Pereira. His performance against City—a masterclass in ball carrying and tactical discipline—has reportedly accelerated City’s transfer plans.
| Feature | Elliot Anderson (23) | Rodri (29) |
| Current Status | Top Target (Summer 2026) | Seeking Extension |
| Est. Transfer Fee | £75M – £90M | N/A (Internal Value €120M+) |
| Role | Versatile Playmaker / 8 | Deep-lying Playmaker / 6 |
| Current Club | Nottingham Forest | Manchester City |
Title Race Blow: The “Seven-Point Gap”
The draw with Forest, combined with Arsenal’s 3-0 win over Brighton, has left City trailing the Gunners by seven points. Though Pep Guardiola’s side holds a game in hand and welcomes Arsenal to the Etihad in mid-April, the margin for error has effectively vanished
