Real Madrid identify Rodri’s replacement with an €80 million price tag

Real Madrid were forced to reassess their transfer strategy after the deal for Rodri, a key target to bolster their midfield, fell through, with the possibility of the Manchester City player joining Barcelona increasing.

The Spanish giants are looking for a player capable of dictating the tempo of the game, linking the lines, and handling the ball under pressure – qualities Real Madrid officials believe are embodied in Spaniard Martin Zubimendi.

Zubeimendi has considerable experience in his position and has been linked with a move to Real Madrid in the past. He was close to joining the club, particularly when Xabi Alonso saw him as a suitable option for midfield.

Reports suggest that Zubimendi’s situation at Arsenal might prompt the English club to consider selling him, especially after the signing of Bruno Guimarães, which could reduce Zubimendi’s playing time in the upcoming season.

According to The Mirror, Arsenal may demand around €80 million to release the Spanish midfielder, a figure Real Madrid are considering as a potential cost to compensate for the failed Rodri deal.

Zubimendi is also younger than Rodri and boasts a career free of serious injuries, making him an attractive option for the Spanish giants.

However, Real Madrid’s move won’t be easy. The club first needs to free up space in midfield, both technically and financially, and this could involve offloading one of their current players, such as Eduardo Camavinga, Aurélien Tchouaméni, or Federico Valverde.

Thus, Real Madrid’s failure to secure Rodri could pave the way for a renewed push for Zubimendi. While the deal would be expensive, it could provide the club with a younger player capable of fulfilling the role they were targeting with the Manchester City star.