Real Madrid sign Brazilian youngster Rodrigo Rodrigues
By Ben Sundock
After a tumultuous couple of days, Real Madrid has made their first signing of the summer transfer window bringing in 18-year-old Brazilian striker, Rodrigo Rodrigues from Gremio Novorizontino. Here are the details of the deal.
President Florentino Perez has a very clear tactic in the transfer market right now: sign young talented players and build them up within the club’s youth ranks. Last summer, Real agreed to terms with Flamengo product Vinicius Jr. who is set to make the switch to Spain either this summer or next.
Hailed by many as the next Neymar, Vinicius is a very exciting prospect. Rodrigo is drawing some of that excitement as well with the way he has played with Gremio Novorizontino. At such a young age, Rodrigues has made a name for himself in Brazil with his incredible dribbling and vision.
The forward has only been with the Novorizontino senior team for a season, but has already drawn the attention of the Europe Kings. Rodrigo has had some good experience in his short senior career spending a few months on loan Palmeiras in 2017.
In the São Paulo state league, the Campeonato Paulista, Rodrigo impressed with several goals and showing some great skill. While Rodrigo is an exciting prospect, it is worth noting he has had far less experience than Vinicius Jr. and unlike Real Madrid’s other Brazilian signing, will make the move to Spain immediately.
Despite the club not making an official announcement on the signing, Rodrigues’ representatives, NG Soccer, confirmed via Instagram that their client had agreed to a six-year deal with the defending Champions League winners.
The newest Real Madrid member will join the Castilla team and continue his development before making the jump to the senior team. Rodrigo said following the confirmation post, “It’s a dream to wear the shirt of the best club in the world. I am certain that I am in the best place to grow as a player. I hope to bring a lot of happiness to the fans and win titles.”
I find it a bit odd the club has yet to confirm the signing, however, they might be waiting for things to settle down to make it official.
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Despite the transfer fee not being mentioned, the team over at Transfer Markt estimate the fee to be in the area of €4 million.
I like the stance President Perez has taken over the last couple of windows not signing Galacticos and focusing on building the team up starting in the youth ranks. La Fabrica has produced some incredible talent over the years and nothing seems to be changing.