Manchester City are preparing to open contract discussions with midfielder Rodri this summer, sources told ESPN, as the club works to secure one of its most vital players before he can depart as a free agent in 2027.

Rodri, 29, has one year remaining on his current deal. The 2024 Ballon d'Or winner indicated Thursday that a move to Real Madrid could not be ruled out, acknowledging he is "open to returning to Spain to end his career in La Liga," per sources.

Formal negotiations were put on hold after Rodri sustained a serious knee injury in September 2024. City chose to delay talks to allow him to concentrate fully on rehabilitation.

Now approaching peak fitness, the Spain international has started nine of City's last 11 matches, including the Carabao Cup final triumph over Arsenal at Wembley. He has collected 11 major trophies across seven seasons at the Etihad since arriving from Atletico Madrid in 2019.

Rodri is one of two urgent contract priorities for the club. Midfielder Phil Foden is also entering the final year of his deal. Defenders Nathan Ake and Mateo Kovacic are additionally set to reach free agency in 2027.

City face further midfield uncertainty with Bernardo Silva expected to depart at season's end. Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson has emerged as a transfer target, though the England international is drawing parallel interest from Manchester United.

Pep Guardiola's side views retaining Rodri as essential to their structure, but must first determine whether he is willing to remain in Manchester long-term.