Real Madrid are reportedly interested in Rodrigo but have been told to cough up €120 million to prise the striker away from Valencia.
According to Spanish publication Marca, Real Madrid will have to stump up a three-figured fee in order to prise Rodrigo away from Valencia. Los Blancos have been looking to add to their attack, with the Spanish international emerging as an option due to his experience of playing in La Liga.
Rodrigo emerged from the Celta Vigo academy setup and had a brief stint at Real Madrid Castilla before moving to SL Benfica. The player established himself at Benfica before Valencia came calling. His 2014-15 season-long loan at Valencia impressed the Spanish outfit enough to sign the player on a permanent basis.
The 27-year-old’s La Liga record isn’t as impressive. But, the Spanish international seems to have hit his stride at the right time. The 2017-18 season saw Rodrigo punch in a commendable return of 16 goals and 7 assists in the league alone. His rise to form has not only elevated his status within the Spanish National Team but has also seen interest arrive from top European clubs.
Chelsea and PSG were among the clubs named to be interested in pursuing the signature of the 27-year-old. But, according to the reports, Rodrigo was intent on staying put at Valencia. Perhaps, a reason could be that the Spaniard feels comfortable and is finally at a club where he is one of the key players.
Real Madrid though, seem interested in Rodrigo, who has another top suitor in Bayern Munich. Los Blancos have been unable to add to their centre-forward options, with Karim Benzema still the only viable candidate upfront, especially after the departure of Cristiano Ronaldo.
Rodrigo has already adapted to La Liga and his upward trajectory means he could offer the best years of his footballing career to Real Madrid, should they decide to pursue the 27-year-old. But, all such hopes have been dashed by Valencia coach Marcelino, who has stated that any team looking to sign Rodrigo will have to pay the €120 million buyout fee.
Rodrigo and Valencia both want the congregation to last longer. But, if someone does decide to pay anywhere close to the aforementioned release clause, the La Liga outfit will be tempted to accept the offer. There are still a fair few days left before the transfer window slams shut. Expect Rodrigo to stay at Valencia though, unless something crazy happens.
