Real Madrid are moving strongly ahead with their squad planning and are operating on the assumption that Rodri Hernández will be their new signing in this transfer window. Even though the boards of the Spanish giants and Manchester City have still not opened formal talks, there is a strong sense of optimism in the Spanish capital.

For their part, the club’s hierarchy have not given up hope of keeping the midfielder and captain of the Spanish national team. At the Etihad Stadium offices, they believe they can persuade him to stay, either by offering a contract extension or by seeing out his current deal.

Despite resistance from the English side, Real Madrid are building their sporting project around the midfielder’s arrival to lead the creative department next season.