Real Madrid Transfer News Roundup: Rodri opens up on Los Blancos links, AC Milan want Spanish ace, and more - September 18, 2024
Real Madrid secured a 3-1 win over VfB Stuttgart in their Champions League opener at the Santiago Bernabeu on Tuesday, September 17. Goals from Kylian Mbappe, Antonio Rudiger, and Endrick helped Carlo Ancelotti's side register a winning start to their European campaign.
Meanwhile, Rodri has responded to rumors linking him to Los Blancos. Elsewhere, AC Milan have set their sights on a Spanish midfielder.
On that note, let's look at the major Real Madrid transfer stories from September 18, 2024.
Rodri opens up on Real Madrid links
Rodri has refused to indulge in rumors linking him to Real Madrid. The Spanish midfielder has been outstanding for Manchester City and has turned heads at the Santiago Bernabeu.
The 28-year-old is among the favorites for this year's Ballon d'Or and Los Blancos are planning a move for him next summer. Rodri has reportedly been identified as the ideal replacement for Toni Kroos, who retired this summer.
However, as cited by acclaimed journalist Fabrizio Romano, the Spaniard insisted that he remains settled at the Etihad.
"I have three more years at Man City and when I sign the contract I don’t think of other teams. So I have three more years at Man City, and nothing more to say,” said Rodri.
Real Madrid are reportedly aware that prising Rodri away from City won't be easy, but are determined to get their man.
AC Milan want Dani Ceballos
AC Milan have entered the race to sign Dani Ceballos, according to Fichajes. The Spanish midfielder's future remains in the air even though he opted to stay at Real Madrid.
Ceballos is a long way down the pecking order under Carlo Ancelotti and is understandably frustrated by the situation. Recent reports have suggested that Real Betis plan to return for their former player in the winter.
The Andalusian club were interested in taking the 28-year-old back to the Estadio Benito Villamarin last month but failed to strike a deal with Los Blancos. They are ready to reignite their interest in Ceballos in January when Real Madrid could be open to his departure.
However, AC Milan are already plotting to ruin their plans. The Rossoneri have identified the midfield as an area that requires immediate attention and are looking for answers in January. They have identified the Spaniard as the ideal fit for Paulo Fonseca's plans.
The Serie A giants have a cordial relationship with Los Blancos, which would work in their face in the race. Moreover, Ceballos could also be tempted to move to San Siro and get his career back on track.
Los Blancos suffer Joshua Kimmich blow
Bayern Munich sporting director Max Eberl has confirmed that the Bavarians want Joshua Kimmich to stay. The German midfielder is in the final year of his contract and has admirers at Real Madrid.
Los Blancos are yet to properly replace Toni Kroos and have Kimmich among the list of candidates for the job. Recent reports have suggested that the Santiago Bernabeu hierarchy is keeping a close eye on his contract situation.
However, as cited by acclaimed journalist Fabrizio Romano, Eberl insisted that the player remains firmly in Bayern's plans.
"We need Joshua Kimmich to be a face of the project. His performances, willingness, heart, he is predestined for that. He should be the captain of Bayern Munich of the future. But first we have to extend the contract,” said Eberl.
Kimmich has appeared 395 times across competitions for the Bundesliga giants, scoring 42 goals and setting up 106 more.