Man City tracking key Real Madrid star despite being rejected once; Man United, Saudi Arabia also keen | OneFootball

Rodrygo Goes plays football at the Etihad tomorrow as Real Madrid take on Manchester City in the UEFA Champions League.

Not long ago, the Brazilian was linked with a move to Manchester City. This was with good reason, as the English side had expressed a deep interest in the Real Madrid forward, and they made their intentions known.

The Premier League champions even presented an official offer in an attempt to convince the 24-year-old to switch teams, a proposal to which he firmly rejected in order to stay at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Man City still keen, more teams interested

However, now, according to Jorge C Picon, Manchester City have not stopped keeping a close eye on Rodrygo’s progress at Real Madrid.

The Cityzens remain on a long list of suitors of the 24-year-old, which also includes their city rivals, Manchester United, who have also shown interest in the Brazilian.

Attracting heavy interest. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

Even Saudi Arabia has made a lucrative offer for the former Santos starlet and could return for him in the summer with a massive financial package.

Guardiola the driving force

The report notes that Pep Guardiola was the main driving force behind Man City’s efforts to sign Rodrygo.

The former Barcelona coach is a huge admirer of the forward and wanted him to reinforce an attack. Therefore, last year, he tried to bring him to Manchester although without success.

During the quarterfinals of the last Champions League between Real Madrid and Manchester City last season, Pep repeatedly sought to cross paths with Rodrygo. He took advantage of mixed zones and the entrance to the dressing rooms to show his appreciation for the Brazilian.

But neither the coach’s efforts nor the offer from England were enough to convince Rodrygo, who always knew he wanted to remain at Real Madrid.

However, both Guardiola and Man City continue to track the rising star’s progress and whether it translates into another offer remains to be seen.