Real Madrid plot bid for Phil Foden as Man City fast-track new contract
Real Madrid are reportedly willing to offer between 180 million and 200 million euros for Phil Foden this summer, but Manchester City are racing to tie the England forward down with a new deal worth a reported 400,000 pounds a week.
Madrid view Foden as their next Galactico signing
According to reports in Spain and England, Real Madrid see Foden as the final piece of what is being described internally as their "New Galacticos" project. The club are prepared to test City's resolve with an offer in the range of 180 million to 200 million euros understood to be under consideration.
Madrid's biggest advantage may not be financial. Foden's close friendship with Jude Bellingham is said to be a factor, with the former Birmingham City midfielder reportedly acting as an informal ambassador for the move. The pair are regular training partners with England and have spoken publicly about their mutual respect.
City preparing a contract fortress
City have no interest in negotiating. The club's hierarchy considers Foden "untouchable" and is fast-tracking what sources have described as a "contract for life" with wages rising to around 400,000 pounds per week. The aim is to have the deal signed before the summer window opens on June 15, removing any room for speculation.
Foden's current contract runs until June 2027, which gives City a strong hand. There is no immediate pressure to sell, and the club are understood to be confident that a significantly improved deal will persuade the 25-year-old to stay at the Etihad.
A saga that could define the summer window
Whether or not Madrid push ahead with a formal offer may depend on how their own summer plans develop. The Spanish club are also linked with moves for Erling Haaland and several midfield targets, and a considerably high bid for Foden would stretch even their considerable budget.
For now, the situation remains one of posturing and positioning. City want it settled quickly. Madrid want to keep the door open. Foden himself has not commented publicly, though reports suggest he is happy at City and open to extending his stay. The next few weeks will tell us which side blinks first.
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