Rodrygo Goes is closer to leaving than staying at Real Madrid. The Brazilian winger has lost his prominence after Kylian Mbappé's arrival. Everything indicates that his departure will be imminent before the transfer window closes.
Fabrizio Romano has been the one to confirm what was already an open secret. Rodrygo will leave the white club this summer, and there's no turning back. The situation is irreversible, according to sources inside the locker room itself.
Mbappé's emergence and Vinicius's growth have pushed the young Brazilian striker aside. Xabi Alonso, new Real Madrid coach, doesn't see him as an essential footballer for his project. The door is completely open for his exit.
Fabrizio Romano confirms it
According to Romano, the future of the Carioca striker will be decided in the coming days. There are advanced talks with several clubs, but one of them has caused a particular stir: FC Barcelona. Yes, the eternal rival has inquired about his situation.
Barça hasn't submitted a formal offer yet, but they've already moved behind the scenes. They know it could be a unique market opportunity, especially if a quick exit from Bernabéu is triggered. Rodrygo isn't ruling out the challenge.
The Italian journalist, always precise in his leaks, hasn't wanted to confirm the exact team. But he has left an important clue: Rodrygo wants to stay in Europe and is completely ruling out the Saudi Arabia option. He wants to compete at the highest level.
Barça remain alert
From Camp Nou, they haven't closed the door to the signing. Hansi Flick likes him, as he's looking for a left-footed winger with dribbling and scoring ability. Deco likes him, as he keeps working to strengthen the attack without exceeding the permitted financial framework.
Rodrygo fits that profile: young, experienced in big matches, and very hungry to prove himself. In addition, his situation at Real Madrid makes things easier, because the white club wants to cash in as soon as possible. The player is willing to listen.
The Barça fanbase is divided over the possibility. Some still haven't forgiven his celebrations in the white jersey. Others believe that his signing would be a masterstroke, both on a sporting and symbolic level.
Madrid has already decided
From Real Madrid, they've made it clear that they won't give him away. His contract expires in 2028 and he has a €1 billion clause. But they're willing to sell if a reasonable offer of about €80 million comes in.
Florentino Pérez knows he can't have discontent in the squad. He prefers to sell now, before his market value drops even further. The priority is to close the deal before the season officially starts.
The problem is that few clubs can afford that amount. That's why the options being considered are a loan with a purchase option or an installment transfer. In that scenario, Barça have resources and imagination.
One of the key points Romano has revealed is the player's stance on Saudi soccer. Rodrygo has received very tempting offers from clubs like Al-Nassr and Al-Ittihad. But he has rejected them all.
"It's not time to leave Europe," his entourage assures. Rodrygo wants to compete, play in the Champions League, and show that he can be decisive in a great team. He isn't looking for a golden retirement at 24 years old.
Barça know it and that's why they keep their position. They won't throw the first stone, but they're patiently waiting for the player to take the initiative. If Rodrygo calls, Joan Laporta will answer.