As we revealed on Flashscore earlier this week, Rodri is prepared to push for a switch to the Bernabeu should Madrid formalise their long-standing interest.
While the Spain international is set to undergo minor surgery, that is not expected to affect Madrid's plans, with growing expectation the European champions could press ahead with a formal offer.
Should Rodri edge towards a blockbuster move from City, United sources believe there will be a knock-on effect in Madrid's midfield.
The Red Devils remain in the market for another central midfielder and would be alerted to any change in the status of Eduardo Camavinga or Aurelien Tchouameni.
Both players have appealed to United's recruitment team in the past, although neither has previously been considered realistically attainable.
There remains particular scepticism internally over the prospect of Tchouameni becoming available, with United continuing to harbour doubts that Madrid would sanction his departure. But Camavinga could become an intriguing option.
The club intend to monitor developments closely before deciding whether there is a genuine opportunity to make any move.
And if Madrid's midfield reshuffle does not materialise because Rodri stays at Manchester City, United will continue to explore alternative plans.
Carlos Baleba and Alex Scott are among the names that continue to be linked, but another player who remains on their radar is Lille teenager Ayyoub Bouaddi — who is regarded as one of Europe's brightest young midfield prospects.
City are very much in the picture to sign the Morocco international, but United may be able to move themselves into a stronger position for the 18-year-old if Rodri remains at City.
United have already signed Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos this summer, but any further midfield plans remain closely tied to developments elsewhere, and Madrid's pursuit of Rodri is likely to shape a number of potential moves across the whole market.
Dean Jones is a transfer news and football insider for Flashscore, since 2025. He has been a journalist on leading UK newspapers and websites over the past 20 years, establishing himself as an authoritative and trusted voice in the industry.
