Barcelona’s Pursuit of Rodri
Barcelona’s Pursuit of Rodri
Barcelona has made an offer to Manchester City for midfielder Rodri, proposing approximately €45 million along with add-ons. However, Manchester City has rejected this initial bid. The English club reportedly considers the offer to be significantly below the amount required to even begin negotiations for a potential transfer. City insists that no meaningful club-to-club discussions are currently underway, as they await a more substantial bid.
Reports indicate that Barcelona was exploring a deal for Rodri, with the midfielder reportedly preferring a move to Camp Nou over other clubs. The appeal of Barcelona’s footballing style and a dressing room that includes eight members of Spain’s 2026 World Cup-winning squad is said to be a factor for Rodri.
This interest from Barcelona follows earlier reports that Real Madrid was also working on a deal for Rodri and had been confident of reaching an agreement. However, talks between Real Madrid and Rodri’s representatives have now concluded. Rodri’s decision to accept another offer was communicated to Real Madrid, who then ended their pursuit.
Contract Status and Injury Concerns
Rodri’s current contract with Manchester City is set to expire in 2027, and he has reportedly shown little inclination to extend his terms. This situation places City in a position where they may need to consider a sale rather than risk losing him on a free transfer in the future.
The midfielder, who was instrumental in Spain’s 2026 World Cup victory and received the Golden Ball award after the final against Argentina, has faced recent injury challenges. He underwent minor back surgery after the World Cup. During the 2024-25 campaign, Rodri suffered an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury and also dealt with hamstring and groin issues last season, featuring 33 times across all competitions.
Barcelona’s interest in Rodri comes at a time when the club is without midfielder Frenkie de Jong for the start of the 2026-27 season due to a torn medial collateral ligament in his right knee. Barcelona has already signed wingers Anthony Gordon from Newcastle United and Karim Adeyemi from Borussia Dortmund this summer. The club is also reportedly targeting a new striker following Robert Lewandowski’s departure, with Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez being pursued.
Manchester City’s Summer Changes
For Manchester City, this summer has already seen significant changes. Pep Guardiola has departed after a decade in charge, alongside long-serving players Bernardo Silva and John Stones. City has strengthened its midfield with the signing of Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest. The club was also reportedly pushing to sign Morocco international Ayyoub Bouaddi, an 18-year-old from Lille, who impressed at the World Cup.
Rodri joined Manchester City from Atletico Madrid in 2019. During his time with the club, he has made 298 appearances, scoring 28 goals and providing 32 assists. His achievements with City include winning four Premier League titles, the FA Cup twice, the League Cup on three occasions, and the Champions League.
As the transfer window progresses, Manchester City will aim to resolve Rodri’s future swiftly to potentially sign a replacement. He is scheduled to link up with his City teammates in Manchester early next week.
Source: nytimes.com
Priya Menon 