The name of Spanish star Rodri is once again echoing around Real Madrid, as it did a year ago, but the royal club does not have the 2024 Ballon d'Or winner among its targets for the upcoming transfer market.

Although Real Madrid intends to strengthen its midfield, the 29-year-old Manchester City player is not currently part of the club's management plans, knowing that his contract with Manchester City ends in the summer of 2027.

Rodri returns to the Santiago Bernabéu for the first time since his Ballon d'Or win in 2024, after injuries prevented him from appearing there in the past period, as Real Madrid hosts Manchester City on Wednesday in the Champions League round of 16.

As this confrontation approaches, talks about the possibility of the Spanish midfielder moving to Real Madrid have resurfaced. Despite his increasing brilliance and significant importance in Manchester City's lineup, sources within the Madrid club have denied any current intention to sign him, despite great admiration for his abilities.

Meanwhile, Antonio Hernandez, the player's father, said during the National Sports Awards ceremony: "He is very happy in his current place. It is natural to be reserved in such circumstances. I know nothing about his future, and the story is still being written."

While Real Madrid continues to study its options to strengthen the midfield, other names like Adam Wharton of Crystal Palace, Kees Smit of AZ Alkmaar, and Vitinha of Paris Saint-Germain emerge, with these deals still under study as part of the club's strategy to enhance the team.