Speculation is swirling in the football world as Manchester City’s transfer plans take center stage, with the Premier League champions reportedly eyeing Real Madrid’s Rodrygo as a potential replacement for Savinho. The situation has all the makings of a classic transfer saga—one Brazilian winger possibly out, and another ready to take his place under Pep Guardiola’s watchful eye.
As of August 17, 2025, the rumor mill has kicked into overdrive. It all began when news broke that Tottenham Hotspur are aggressively pursuing Savinho, City’s dynamic winger. The Brazilian international’s absence from Manchester City’s opening Premier League match—attributed to injury—only fueled speculation about his future at the Etihad. According to reports from Esteemed Kompany and transfer insider Fabrizio Romano, Savinho is not just on Tottenham’s radar; he’s also keen on the move himself. The North London club, undeterred by initial setbacks, is said to be preparing an improved offer for the 24-year-old.
Manchester City, for their part, are playing their cards close to the chest. While there’s a willingness to keep Savinho in the squad, the club’s hierarchy appears pragmatic. If Tottenham meet City’s asking price, the door is open for Savinho’s departure. And if that happens, City’s next move is already mapped out: a full-throttle pursuit of Rodrygo, the versatile Real Madrid forward who has made a name for himself on some of Europe’s biggest stages.
"Manchester City keep thinking of Rodrygo as main target if Savinho ends up leaving and joining Tottenham. As revealed days ago, MCFC want to try for Brazilian star… but only if Sávio leaves. No Akliouche, no Xavi Simons as of now. Rodrygo, the name mentioned internally," reported Fabrizio Romano, as cited by Conor Laird of GSFN. The message is clear—Rodrygo is not just an option; he’s the option, should Savinho’s exit materialize.
This clarity of purpose is echoed across multiple reports. City have decisively ruled out alternative targets such as Maghnes Akliouche of AS Monaco and Xavi Simons of RB Leipzig, narrowing their focus solely to Rodrygo. It’s a testament to the Brazilian’s stature and the specific qualities he brings to the table. While Savinho’s game is built around direct dribbling and explosive pace, Rodrygo’s calling card is versatility. At Real Madrid, he’s played across the front line—left wing, right wing, and even through the middle—adapting seamlessly to the tactical demands of the moment.
But what makes Rodrygo such an attractive prospect for Pep Guardiola’s City? For starters, his knack for stepping up in big moments. While Savinho’s raw potential is undisputed, observers have noted that he’s yet to consistently deliver in crunch situations. Rodrygo, on the other hand, has built a reputation for decisive contributions when the stakes are highest. As Esteemed Kompany put it, "Rodrygo has a habit of stepping up in big moments. Savinho may do, but it has yet to be displayed. There isn’t a statistic that measures that particular trait."
It’s not just about the numbers; it’s about the intangibles. Rodrygo’s ability to impact games from multiple positions could be a game-changer for a squad already brimming with attacking talent. In Guardiola’s fluid system, where positional interchange and tactical flexibility are prized, Rodrygo’s skill set fits the bill perfectly. While Savinho is predominantly a right winger—though he can operate on the left—Rodrygo’s comfort across the front line offers City more options, especially in the long grind of a season competing on multiple fronts.
The domino effect is clear: Tottenham’s pursuit of Savinho is the catalyst for City’s interest in Rodrygo. If Spurs meet the financial demands set by City, the blue half of Manchester will waste no time launching their bid for the Real Madrid star. As Romano succinctly summarized, "Manchester City’s plan if Savinho leaves the club is clear. They will move for Rodrygo if Spurs meet City’s asking price for Savinho."
Yet, as with all high-profile transfer stories, nothing is set in stone. Manchester City’s willingness to keep Savinho means the club holds a strong negotiating position. The ball is firmly in Tottenham’s court—will they return with a bid that matches City’s valuation? The expectation, according to those close to the negotiations, is that they will. But until the ink is dry on any deal, both Savinho and Rodrygo remain where they are, the subject of feverish speculation and tactical maneuvering.
For Real Madrid, the situation is equally intriguing. Rodrygo has become a key figure at the Bernabéu, contributing crucial goals and assists in both domestic and European competitions. Losing him would be a significant blow, especially given his growing influence and versatility. However, the allure of a high-profile move to the Premier League—and the chance to work under Guardiola—could be tempting for the Brazilian international.
The transfer window is notorious for its unpredictability. Clubs posture, players hint at their desires, and agents work furiously behind the scenes. What’s undeniable is the sense of anticipation building around these two Brazilian stars. Will Savinho swap Manchester for London and don the white of Tottenham Hotspur? Will Rodrygo make the leap from La Liga to the Premier League, joining a City side hungry for more silverware?
Fans are left to wonder how Rodrygo might fit into the reigning English champions’ setup. Would he be deployed on the flanks, or could Guardiola experiment with him in a more central role? And for Savinho, would a move to Tottenham offer the platform he needs to establish himself as one of Europe’s elite wingers?
As the days tick down to the end of the transfer window, one thing’s for certain: the fate of these two Brazilians could reshape the attacking lines of two of Europe’s biggest clubs. The outcome hinges on Tottenham’s next move—and Manchester City’s response. For now, the football world watches and waits, eager to see which domino falls first.
With all eyes on the negotiations, the coming weeks promise drama, intrigue, and possibly, a major shake-up in the attacking ranks of both Manchester City and Real Madrid. Stay tuned; this transfer story is far from over.
