REAL Madrid could have a complete makeover under Jose Mourinho.
The Special One has been tipped for a fairytale return to Los Blancos, with Madrid needing a squad shake-up after a disappointing campaign.
And he may well immediately stamp his authority on the team starting with a flash new midfield.
Spanish reports have suggested that Rodri is admired by Mourinho and could be “on the table” if the manager change happens.
But Rodri’s move will depend on how his stuttering contract talks continue as he will be able to depart as a free agent next year.
In the midfield, Chelsea’s Enzo Fernandez has been linked with a move to the Spanish capital.
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This could allow Mourinho to build a new-look powerhouse of Rodri, Fernandez, and Federico Valverde.
Rodri can act as the base that they’ve been missing since Casemiro – giving that Real that extra defensive bite.
Fernandez can become a progressive passer, while Valverde can bring his trademark running power on the right side of midfield.
Casemiro leaving Manchester United could give Real fans an opportunity to relive the glory days.
But Rodri is realistically a more sensible option in the long-term.
Dani Carvajal started against Sevilla and looks likely to start again against Athletic Club.
Yet his future remains uncertain as the 15-time European champions have reportedly not begun talks over a new deal.
This means that the door could open for Trent Alexander-Arnold to come in at right-back with Alphonso Davies on the opposite side.
Fran Garcia also remains in the mix depending on the club’s summer plans.
City defender Josko Gvardiol has also been linked with Madrid and could slot in as the left-sided CB alongside Eder Militao.
But the biggest upsets could happen in attack if Kylian Mbappe is dropped from Mourinho’s starting XI.
Vinicius Jr may stay in his preferred role off the left rather than being forced into a central striker position.
And Jude Bellingham could be pushed higher as a No10 or false nine.
Nico Paz, whose return from loan could be considered more likely, could be handed a role from the right, drifting inside onto stronger areas and where Trent could overlap.
Galatasaray are said to remain confident they can keep hold of Victor Osimhen while continues to be linked with Real as a possible long-term solution.
Bernardo Silva has also reportedly been offered to Madrid with the Portugal star set to leave Man City once his contract expires.
Meanwhile, Kees Smit has already admitted that playing in Spain would suit him, and as a youngster, the club may well be keeping an eye on his progress.
The 20-year-old’s future could also depend on Mourinho’s arrival as the new boss is expected to make deciding calls on returning loan players including Paz, Victor Munoz and Jacobo Ramon.
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