Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has reportedly halted the club's pursuit of Manchester City midfielder Rodri, despite the Spain international's desire to return to La Liga.

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Rodri has long viewed a move to Real Madrid as a dream destination and would welcome the opportunity to return to Spain after previously playing for Atlético Madrid.

However, any potential transfer appears unlikely this summer, with Perez reportedly unwilling to sanction negotiations for the midfielder.

Writing on X, Romano said:

“Rodri would love a return to Spain and dreams of Real Madrid, clear since months.

“At same time, Florentino Pérez has always blocked this deal or any negotiations for Rodri this summer.

“Man City new contract proposal, on the table since April.”

Rodri's current contract with Manchester City is due to expire next summer, prompting the Premier League champions to present him with a new long-term contract in an effort to secure his future.

The development comes as newly appointed Real Madrid manager José Mourinho begins preparations for the new season, with the Spanish giants continuing to assess their options in the transfer market.

Rodri has been one of Manchester City's most influential players in recent years, establishing himself as one of the world's leading defensive midfielders through his composure, passing range, and tactical intelligence.

With City keen to retain one of their key players and Real Madrid's president reportedly reluctant to pursue a deal, Rodri's immediate future appears more likely to remain in England than return to Spain.

Opinion

Rodri would undoubtedly strengthen almost any team in world football, making Real Madrid's reported reluctance an intriguing decision. While Florentino Perez may have other priorities or long-term plans for the midfield, elite defensive midfielders of Rodri's calibre are rare. For Manchester City, securing him on a new contract would be a major victory, while for Rodri, remaining at a club where he is central to the project may ultimately prove the most stable option if a move to Madrid does not materialise.