‘Hopefully I’ll return!’ – Brighton’s Arsenal-slayer opens door to future Real Madrid move after ‘new Rodri’ emergence

Real Madrid possessed several buyback options and a 50 per cent sell-on clause during the midfielder’s time at Stuttgart. Following his impressive 41-appearance debut season in Germany, there was speculation that the Spanish heavyweights might activate their return option.

Instead, they declined, allowing Brighton to secure his signature. The transfer to the Premier League severed Real Madrid’s contractual ties to the player for good, though they did pocket €11.5m from the sell-on clause.

Given his bright start in England and a long-term contract running until 2031, any future move from Real Madrid to bring their academy graduate home will require a significant financial outlay.