After weeks of speculation and swirling transfer rumors, Tottenham Hotspur have emerged as the first club to make a serious move for Real Madrid forward Rodrygo.
The North London club has formally approached Real Madrid to request permission to speak with the Brazilian international, signaling the beginning of what could be one of the summer’s most high-profile transfer pursuits.
Rodrygo’s future at Real Madrid has been the subject of consistent debate in recent months.
While the 23-year-old has expressed a desire to stay and fight for his place at the Santiago Bernabéu, the arrival of Kylian Mbappé and increased competition for attacking roles has cast doubt on his long-term role at the club.
Despite ongoing media interest from major Premier League clubs, Tottenham is now the first to take concrete action.
Spurs chairman Daniel Levy is aware of Rodrygo’s reluctance to leave Madrid but hopes to persuade him with a compelling project and guaranteed playing time.
The club’s formal request to speak directly with Rodrygo indicates they are prepared to present their vision to the player before discussing financial terms with Real Madrid. As it stands, no other club has advanced to this stage of the transfer process.
Meanwhile, other previously linked suitors appear to have shifted their focus elsewhere.
Chelsea are now reportedly targeting Xavi Simons, Liverpool have prioritized Alexander Isak, and Arsenal have paused major spending after completing the high-profile signing of Viktor Gyokeres.
With these clubs backing off, Tottenham stands alone as the Premier League’s leading contender for Rodrygo’s signature.
Real Madrid have placed a €100 million price tag on the forward, but Tottenham are expected to push for a reduced fee, with hopes of landing the player for under €90 million.
The clubs share a respectful relationship, with Levy and Madrid president Florentino Pérez having worked together in the past, a factor that may smooth negotiations if talks progress.
For now, the final decision remains with Real Madrid, who can choose whether or not to allow Spurs to enter discussions with the player.
