Rodri Transfer Saga: Manchester City Rejects Barcelona’s Opening Bid
Manchester City have rejected an initial offer from Barcelona for midfielder Rodri. The bid was considered significantly too low by City, leading to a halt in negotiations for the time being. Sources in Spain indicate that Rodri would prefer a move to Barcelona over Real Madrid.
City are reportedly open to selling the Spain international but would demand a transfer fee exceeding a certain amount. Rodri, who is , is yet to sign a new deal, with speculation rife about his future this summer.
Barcelona’s offer was approximately €45 million plus add-ons. City, however, believe this figure is nowhere near what would be required to even begin meaningful negotiations for a potential sale. The club insists that no serious club-to-club talks are currently underway.
Rodri’s Future and Club Interest
While City do not wish to sell their World Cup-winning captain and instead aim to secure a new contract, reports suggest they would not prevent Rodri from leaving if he formally requests a transfer. The player’s contract with City is set to expire in 2027, and he has shown little inclination to extend his terms.
Initially, Real Madrid appeared to be the likely destination for Rodri. However, Barcelona has now emerged as a strong contender. According to one report, Real Madrid were informed of Rodri’s decision on Friday to accept another offer, leading them to end their pursuit.
Rodri’s agent, Pablo Barquero, confirmed that Real Madrid had made an “irresistible” offer shortly after Spain’s World Cup triumph. Despite positive discussions, Rodri made a personal decision to consider other options.
The appeal of Barcelona for Rodri is said to stem from their footballing style and the presence of eight members of Spain’s 2026 World Cup-winning squad in their dressing room. Rodri has previously expressed a desire to return to Spain and play in La Liga again before the end of his career.
Injury Concerns and Potential Replacements
Rodri missed a significant portion of the 2024-25 campaign due to a serious knee injury and also dealt with a hamstring issue last season. He underwent back surgery last month and is expected to rejoin his City teammates in Manchester early next week.
Despite recent injury concerns, Rodri was instrumental in Spain’s 2026 World Cup victory and was named the player of the tournament. The 2024 Ballon d’Or winner was crucial to City’s in-play strategy under former manager Pep Guardiola, setting the tempo and controlling games.
As City evaluate their options for a potential replacement, Enzo Fernandez of Chelsea has been mentioned as a “dream” signing for City boss Enzo Maresca, according to reports from Italy. However, earlier this summer, it was reported that Fernandez was not a target as City intended to keep Rodri.
City have already strengthened their midfield with the £116 million signing of Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest. They are also reportedly pursuing Morocco international Ayyoub Bouaddi from Lille, though the French club’s asking price is a point of contention.
Rodri joined City from Atletico in 2019 and has since made 298 appearances for the club, scoring 28 goals and providing 32 assists. He has won four Premier League titles, two FA Cups, three League Cups, and the Champions League during his tenure.
Source: skysports.com