Real Madrid open Rodri talks after first Manchester City approach

Real Madrid have taken the first concrete step in their pursuit of Manchester City midfielder Rodri after opening negotiations with the Premier League champions.

According to Fabrizio Romano, the Spanish giants have now made their first approach for the 30-year-old, with verbal discussions between the two clubs officially underway.

The latest development follows FootballPlace's report on Tuesday that Real Madrid were preparing to launch a move after Florentino Pérez softened his long-standing stance on signing the Spain international.

Romano reports that negotiations have now begun, with Real Madrid making initial contact with Manchester City.

The discussions remain at a verbal stage, but the move represents a significant breakthrough after months in which the transfer appeared unlikely.

Real Madrid are also said to have informed Manchester City they are prepared to spend more than €50 million to secure the midfielder's signature.

That figure is in line with previous reports suggesting City could be willing to negotiate should Rodri decide he wants a new challenge.

FootballPlace reported on Tuesday that Florentino Pérez had finally approved a move after previously resisting attempts to pursue Rodri.

That change of stance came after head coach José Mourinho made the Manchester City star his priority midfield target and senior figures within the club presented the president with a detailed case for completing the transfer.

Romano's latest update now confirms Real Madrid have moved from internal planning to direct discussions with Manchester City.

Manchester City remain keen to tie Rodri down to a new long-term contract, but negotiations have yet to produce an agreement.

The Spain international has not accepted the club's renewal proposal, leaving Real Madrid with an opportunity to test City's resolve.

While there is no indication that an agreement is close, formal contact between the clubs represents the clearest sign yet that the transfer is developing into one of the biggest stories of the summer.

FootballPlace revealed on Tuesday that Real Madrid were preparing to move for Rodri once Florentino Pérez approved the operation. Less than 24 hours later, Fabrizio Romano reports that first contact has now been made, suggesting the deal has entered a new phase. The focus now shifts to whether Manchester City are prepared to negotiate and whether Rodri is ready to leave the Etihad Stadium.

Negotiations are expected to continue in the coming days as Real Madrid attempt to establish whether Manchester City are willing to sell. Should talks progress positively, attention will then turn to agreeing a transfer fee and resolving Rodri's contractual future.