Jurgen Klopp continues to be the frontrunner to become Real Madrid's permanent manager this summer. Speculation is growing over Klopp potentially arriving at the Bernabeu despite his recent comments downplaying the possibility.
The German has been out of management since leaving Liverpool at the end of the 2023-24 campaign. He was a massive success at Anfield, guiding the Reds to the Premier League title for the first time in 30 years.
Klopp built a dominant team that also won the Champions League during his nine years in charge. His success came amid Manchester United's nosedive in the post-Sir Alex Ferguson era.
United are in a rebuilding phase and remain keen on bolstering their wide options. That might see the Red Devils try and sign a Los Blancos star this summer and if Klopp does arrive he reportedly could sanction a deal.
Klopp appointment could send Real Madrid star to Man United
Klopp will likely make clear he wants control over recruitment while working alongside Madrid's transfer chiefs. He was heavily involved in Liverpool's transfer business during his spell on Merseyside.
According to journalist Ekrem Konur (via Defensa Central), Klopp is prepared to "sacrifice" Rodrygo whose future was in doubt last summer. His days at the Bernabeu looked numbered due to a lack of game time at the Club World Cup.
Rodrygo played his way back into the Madrid team and has reclaimed his starting role on the right wing. He has made 26 appearances across competitions, posting three goals and six assists.
It's claimed that Manchester United are "prepared to make a strong bid" to sign the Brazilian attacker. There's no word on how much the Red Devils would be willing to pay for the 25-year-old who has just over two years on his contract.
If Klopp does arrive and decides to sell Rodrygo it could mean he heads to United and that might not go down too well at Liverpool. He'd undoubtedly improve their rivals and help them continue to try and return to the top of English football.
Where does Rodrygo's head lie?
Rodrygo is said to be intending to stay at Madrid where he has been a crucial player since arriving in the Spanish capital in 2019. He's won every major trophy on offer and come up with important moments.
The Brazilian has been sidelined recently and will be suspended for the Champions League playoff tie against Benfica. If he doesn't recieve regular game time for the remainder of the season that could change his mind.
Klopp's potential appointment will also play a role especially if the German doesn't fancy him as indicated. But he is highly-regarded by those at Madrid including Jude Bellingham who called him the team's "most talented player."
Bellingham told SPORT back in February 2025: “Rodryo is very underrated. To me he is the most talented and gifted player on the team."
Rodrygo's future has been the subject of speculation ahead of Endrick returning to Madrid. His Brazilian compatriot has starred on loan at Lyon and the higher-ups view him as a new signing.