There are more and more movements, rumors, leaks, and private farewells in Real Madrid's locker room.
One of the ones that has drawn the most attention is the one that, according to reports, took place between Rodrygo Goes and Vinícius Júnior. There was no official statement and it wasn't recorded by cameras. It was among friends.
Rodrygo approached his compatriot and made it clear: "I'm going to the...". He didn't give any more details. Just a smile and a message that set off all the alarms.
Meanwhile, Vinícius keeps pushing for a salary increase that would put him above Mbappé, Rodrygo has already made a decision. He is tired of being third on the list and not having a spot in Xabi Alonso's starting eleven.
Being the first one sacrificed when changes need to be made is another reason why he has decided to leave. There is no shortage of offers.
Arsenal, United, PSG... but none convince
They have moved strongly from England. Arsenal was the first to show interest. They want him as a partner for Saka and Odegaard, but their financial proposal didn't manage to entice Florentino.
Nor the player. The same happened with Manchester United, which is going through a rebuilding process that doesn't inspire dreams of titles in the short term.
PSG also entered the scene. After Mbappé's departure, they need talent and goals, and Rodrygo fits that profile.
But the Brazilian doesn't look favorably on moving to Paris. He doesn't want to be alone, without trusted Brazilian teammates, nor in a league he considers inferior to the Spanish and German ones.
The key: Musiala's injury and Luis Díaz's no
Everything changed a few days ago, when it was confirmed in Germany that Jamal Musiala has suffered a long-term injury. What seemed like a calm preseason for Bayern Munich has turned into an emergency.
Luis Díaz, the first option, said no. The Colombian wants to stay at Liverpool. Bayern, with the money ready and the need pressing, has activated its Plan B: Rodrygo.
In München, they are looking for a versatile, young striker with goals and used to competing at the highest level. Rodrygo has it all.
Moreover, they wouldn't have any problems paying the €90 million ($90 million) that Florentino Pérez is asking for. In Germany, there is money and urgency.
Real Madrid doesn't look unfavorably on cashing in on a footballer who finds it increasingly difficult to shine. Besides, he isn't happy with his secondary role.
"I'm going to Bayern"
That was the message Rodrygo, laughing, slipped to his friend Vinícius. An informal farewell, but one that marks a point of no return.
The Brazilian player wants minutes, prominence, and a new challenge. Bayern wants him. Madrid won't oppose if the €90 million ($90 million) arrives.
Vinícius already knows that his compatriot will pack his bags this summer.