Midfield planning at FC Barcelona has taken a dramatic turn as the club evaluates options ahead of the upcoming campaign. What previously appeared likely to end in a move to Real Madrid has shifted towards the Spotify Camp Nou, with Manchester City and Spain midfielder Rodri reportedly favouring Barcelona’s sporting project. GOAL and Spanish outlets have reported that Rodri has given Barcelona the green light to negotiate with Manchester City.
According to reports from Marca and Mundo Deportivo, Rodri’s negotiations with Real Madrid reached a dead end over financial terms. Barcelona had hesitated before confirming the player’s desire to join the club, but his reported preference has opened the possibility of a deal. Fabrizio Romano has also reported that Rodri is willing to discuss personal terms with Barcelona after being persuaded by Hansi Flick’s project.
Barcelona’s interest emerged amid concerns over Frenkie de Jong’s knee injury. Marca reported that conservative treatment had not produced the desired result and that surgery was increasingly likely, potentially keeping the Dutch midfielder out for four to five months. While reinforcing the attack remains Barcelona’s priority, the club is seriously studying the opportunity to sign an elite midfielder. Rodri would also arrive in a familiar environment alongside several Spain team-mates.
Any deal with Manchester City would present a significant financial challenge for Barcelona. Sport has valued a potential transfer at between €55 million and €70 million, with City reportedly holding out for the upper end of that range. Rodri’s salary is also expected to be a major obstacle, leaving Barcelona to seek financial solutions within the salary cap.
No official offer has yet been submitted to either Rodri or Manchester City, and an agreement remains to be reached with the English club. Barcelona’s reported permission to negotiate nevertheless gives the club an opportunity to explore a deal as it works on a financial formula that could satisfy City.
