'Cannot turn down best clubs in the world' - Rodri comments on Real Madrid links

Manchester City midfielder Rodri has fuelled speculation over his long-term future by declaring that "you cannot turn down the best clubs in the world" when pressed on reported interest from Real Madrid.

Speaking to Spanish radio station Onda Cero ahead of international friendlies against Serbia and Egypt, the 29-year-old acknowledged that discussions over an extension to his Etihad deal, which expires in 2027, are looming.

"I have a year left on my contract," Rodri said. "There will come a point when we'll have to sit down and talk."

The Spain international, who joined City from cross-Madrid rivals Atlético in 2019, refused to dismiss the possibility of one day pulling on the famous white shirt, despite the fierce rivalry between the Spanish capital's clubs.

"There are other players who've taken that path," he noted. "Not directly, but over time. You can't turn down the best clubs in the world."

Rodri, capped 47 times by Spain, added that a return to LaLiga appeals to him, though he stressed his current focus remains on the Premier League.

"I would like to return to LaLiga, yes, of course. For me, LaLiga is where I started. I still follow it, not as much as before, but I still follow it. But right now, I am very happy here."

Since arriving in Manchester for a club-record fee seven years ago, Rodri has made 293 appearances, scoring 28 goals and providing 32 assists. His trophy haul includes four Premier League titles, one FA Cup, three League Cups, a Champions League and the Club World Cup.

City, who declined to comment on the interview, are understood to be eager to retain the midfielder's services and open fresh talks over an improved contract. Negotiations have been delayed in part while the player recovers from a serious knee injury sustained earlier this season.

Sky Sports News has been told that City are already scouring the market for reinforcements in central midfield, with Elliot Anderson, Sandro Tonali, Adam Wharton and Carlos Baleba among those monitored, though any incomings would likely hinge on departures elsewhere in the squad.

Manager Pep Guardiola, himself under contract until 2027, has long maintained that he will not block players who express a genuine desire to leave, placing the onus on the club to convince Rodri his future remains in Manchester.

Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez is known to be targeting a midfield addition this summer, with Rodri, Chelsea's Enzo Fernández and Moisés Caicedo all reportedly under consideration. Yet sources close to City remain quietly confident that a new deal can be struck with a player widely regarded as one of the finest holding midfielders of the Premier League era.

For now, Rodri's immediate attention is fixed on international duty, but his candid remarks have ensured the spotlight will follow him back to Manchester as the countdown to the summer transfer window begins.