They set the date for Rodri's signing with Real Madrid, marked on the calendar

Real Madrid has already marked a key date in their sports planning: the summer of 2026. That's when the club will go all out for Rodrigo Hernández, better known as Rodri, Manchester City's midfielder and current Ballon d'Or winner.

Rodri is the main target to strengthen the midfield in the medium term. The club's board believes he's the perfect player to balance the team.

He has experience, authority, tactical ability, and leadership. Above all, he fits the profile Real Madrid is looking for in the post-Kroos and post-Modric era.

The Spanish midfielder's contract with City ends in 2027. However, in the summer of 2026, his signing will be more feasible. That will be the key moment when the club will try to close the deal.

By then, City is expected to be more open to negotiating, and the player himself may consider a new challenge.

Zubimendi, possible transitional reinforcement

Until then, Madrid could look for a transitional solution. That's where Martín Zubimendi comes into play.

The Real Sociedad midfielder is an option the club likes a lot. He's also Xabi Alonso's preferred choice for that position.

However, the player's situation isn't simple. According to information released in recent weeks, Zubimendi already has a deal in place with Arsenal. Even so, Madrid is still keeping an eye on him, aware that any deal can change until it's finalized.

Real Sociedad doesn't close the door on his departure

Jokin Aperribay, Real Sociedad's president, spoke about his situation this Thursday: "Zubimendi is the only player we've had conversations about. We'd like him to stay, but we know there are several options. We don't think anything will be finalized in the short term," he explained.

In any case, the final goal is clear. Real Madrid has defined their roadmap and Rodri is the main name on it.

The deal is set to be the big move of the summer of 2026. In Valdebebas, they're already working to make it happen.