According to a recent report by Marca, Real Madrid are close to selling Oscar Rodriguez to Villarreal this summer. The same source has also revealed that the two clubs have discussed a €20m transfer fee for the Spanish midfielder ahead of the summer transfer window.
Rodriguez’ Incredible Loan Spell With Leganes
Rodriguez has spent the last two seasons on loan at Leganes where he has impressed a lot of people with some incredible goal-scoring performances as a key component of Javier Aguirre’s attack. He has made 32 appearances for the Spanish outfit this term, scoring nine goals while providing two assists in all competitions which sheds light on his growing influence in La Liga.
The 22-year-old has become a real fan-favourite at Estadio Municipal de Butarque after averaging 2.1 shots, 1.0 key passes and 1.4 dribbles per game in the Spanish top-flight this season. However, he is not the best ball-distributor as evidenced by his pass success rate of 73.7% in league football so far (stats via whoscored).
The promising midfielder has represented Spain at various youth levels. He is currently an important member for his country’s Under-21 team, having scored one goal in four matches for them thus far. Maybe a change of scenery this summer could offer him a chance to shine at the highest level so that he can earn a senior call-up from Spain manager Luis Enrique in the years to come.
What Are The Spanish Playmaker’s Best Attributes?
Rodriguez is a technically gifted footballer and is quite proficient at making a few promising runs in the opposition half using his composure and excellent ball control. He is also a specialist from dead-ball situations as he can create a lot of curve on the ball with his shots from long range. However, the Spaniard needs to work on his build-up play so that he can earn more assists in the coming seasons. He is still quite raw and would need time to hone his skills before he can break into the world-class bracket someday.
Will Zidane Make The Right Call By Sanctioning Rodriguez’s Exit This Summer?
Given his talents, it is quite a surprise to see the Madrid giants willing to entertain the possibility of his exit this summer. Rodriguez has shown signs of progress over the past ten months, so he deserves to get a shot at impressing at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium next season. However, if Zinedine Zidane can work out a repurchase option, then it makes sense for the new La Liga champions to sell him to Villarreal this summer.
At 22, Rodriguez has the potential to become a gem of a midfielder in the future, so it will only be fair to the player to offer him a chance to secure regular playing time in the upcoming campaign. Real Madrid have currently got the likes of Isco, Toni Kroos and Marco Asensio vying for one of the attacking midfield positions, so they are in no immediate need for another number ten in their team.
