Man City's Rodri Dilemma: Madrid Loom as Anderson Pursuit Continues

City target Elliot Anderson

Manchester City face uncertainty over Rodri's future as they pursue Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson amid contract talks.

Manchester City navigate Rodri's contract talks and Real Madrid interest while pursuing Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson...

Manchester City have a fresh headache over Rodri's future - but their hopes of signing Elliot Anderson continue to grow.

The prospect of star midfield player Rodri having his head turned by interest from Madrid has always been City's main concern in discussions over a new contract.

At the same time, however, they have been pressing ahead with their midfield planning and continue to lead the race for Elliot Anderson, as previously revealed by Flashscore.

Expectations are growing that a deal with Nottingham Forest can be reached for the £100m-rated England international.

Initial contacts are open, and Anderson is viewed as part of a rebuild in midfield, with the club also exploring the addition of at least one more player in that area.

The planning comes amid fresh uncertainty around Rodri.

Sources confirm City have begun talks over a new deal, but there has been no significant progress, and his latest comments will only add to any concern.

Rodri has admitted he would “like to come back” to Spain one day and did little to distance himself from a move back to his city of birth.

Rodri previously played for Atletico Madrid, but left the door open for a move to Real Madrid, saying: “There have been many players who’ve gone down that path. For me, you can’t turn down the best clubs in the world.”

Rodri isn't pushing for a move at this stage and seems undecided about his next step, leaving City hopeful they can convince him to stay.

However, with his contract running until 2027 and no agreement in place, the prospect of a move is alive - whether in the summer or when his deal expires.

🗣️ "I think Man City have to look to sell him"

Jay Bothroyd discusses Rodri and whether his comments about Real Madrid are unhelpful for Manchester City. pic.twitter.com/h7mQzImpkd

— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) March 27, 2026

Sources note that Madrid might wait rather than act now.

The Spanish club have let contracts run down before and might do the same here, aiming for a future free transfer like with Trent Alexander-Arnold.

City's recruitment drive suggests they're preparing for all outcomes.

Alongside their ongoing push for Anderson, they're considering further midfield additions, with Sandro Tonali recently mentioned.

They're also long-term admirers of Newcastle's Bruno Guimaraes.

🚨💣 RODRI’S FULL SEGMENT ABOUT REAL MADRID:

“Would you like to return to play in Spain, in Madrid, in La Liga?”

🚨 Rodri: “I would like to return, yes, obviously.”

“Did someone tell you if the president or general director of Real Madrid would like you?”

🚨 Rodri: “(Laughs)… pic.twitter.com/HJWofmYVCy

— Madrid Xtra (@MadridXtra) March 26, 2026

As it stands, City are intent on pushing forward with their summer plans while waiting for clarity from Rodri.