Real Madrid and Barcelona Circle as Manchester City Stars Attract La Liga Giants’ Attention
Manchester City may be facing a high-stakes transfer battle, as Spanish powerhouses Real Madrid and FC Barcelona intensify their pursuit of two of Pep Guardiola’s most vital players — midfielder Rodri and playmaker Bernardo Silva. With the January window approaching, reports suggest that Madrid are ready to table a record-breaking offer for Rodri, while Barcelona have made contact regarding Silva, setting the stage for a potential double blow to the Premier League champions.
Real Madrid Step Up Pursuit of Rodri with €130M Offer
According to a report from Fichajes, Real Madrid are determined to land 2024 Ballon d’Or winner Rodri, whom they see as a key piece in Xabi Alonso’s upcoming rebuild at the Bernabéu. Initially prepared to offer €100 million, Los Blancos have reportedly increased their bid to a staggering €130 million, hoping to fast-track negotiations and secure the deal as soon as possible.
Madrid’s renewed interest follows Rodri’s return to form this season after a long injury layoff. The Spanish midfielder was forced off with a minor muscle issue during City’s 1-0 win over Brentford, but Pep Guardiola played down the severity post-match.
“It’s muscular,” Guardiola confirmed. “Of course I don’t want to lose him because he is such an important player. We tried to take care of him, but it is what it is.”
Despite the injury scare, Rodri remains central to Guardiola’s system and is under contract until 2027. City are not expected to let him go easily, and any deal would need to meet an extraordinarily high valuation — something Madrid now appear willing to match.
Bernardo Silva Also Targeted as Barcelona, Juventus, and Saudi Clubs Make Moves
While Rodri is attracting interest from Madrid, another City star, Bernardo Silva, is reportedly on Barcelona’s radar. According to Caught Offside, the Catalan club have already opened dialogue with Silva’s representatives, with sporting director Deco identifying him as an ideal fit for Hansi Flick’s style of play.
Barcelona’s strategy hinges on the possibility of landing Silva on a free transfer in 2026, though an earlier exit has not been ruled out. Silva’s current deal runs for another season beyond this one, but pressure could mount if the player desires a new challenge.
However, Barcelona aren’t alone in the chase. Juventus and several Saudi Pro League clubs are also keen, although the Portuguese international’s £300,000-per-week wages pose a major obstacle for the Italian side.
“Juventus are open to a deal, but wages pose a thorny issue,” the report notes. “Unless Silva agrees to a significant pay cut, a move to Turin seems unlikely.”
City Face Growing Pressure Ahead of Transfer Window
Manchester City have started the 2025/26 Premier League campaign with momentum, climbing to fifth after back-to-back wins and sitting just three points behind league leaders Arsenal. However, Guardiola’s squad depth could be tested in the coming months if these transfer threats materialize.
Rodri’s importance cannot be overstated — his absence last season due to an ACL injury coincided with a dip in form. Losing him now would be a huge blow. Similarly, Silva has been a creative fulcrum for years, and his departure would leave a significant void.
With both players heavily linked with La Liga giants, City’s resolve — and financial stance — will be put to the test as Real Madrid and Barcelona prepare to make their move.
