Barcelona and Real Madrid in Pursuit
Manchester City midfielder Rodri may have a huge decision to make this summer on whether to join La Liga giants Real Madrid or Barcelona, should he decide to leave Etihad Stadium. The 30-year-old is into the final year of his deal at City and is yet to sign fresh terms. Real have held a long-term interest in signing the player, but two separate sources told BBC Sport on Thursday that Spanish champions Barcelona have joined the race for his signature. To add to the intrigue, Barca sources have distanced themselves from such talk when approached to comment by BBC Sport.[S1]
According to reports, Rodri has decided that he wants to join FC Barcelona over Real Madrid this summer. On Thursday morning, Fabrizio Romano stated that Hansi Flick's side have 'made contact' over signing Rodri. Romano said on X: 'Barcelona have made contact with Rodri's camp and also with Manchester City about possible move. Real Madrid have been in talks with City for weeks but #MCFC didn't accept to proceed immediately as felt more clubs were joining the race. Up to the player.'[S4]
Rodri's Preference and Contract Situation
Rodri missed much of the 2024-25 campaign after sustaining a serious knee injury, and parts of last season were disrupted by a hamstring issue. However, the 2024 Ballon d'Or winner was back to his best at the World Cup in the summer, leading Spain to their second title and being named player of the tournament. Rodri said earlier this season his future would be sorted out after the tournament, but he is currently out of action after undergoing back surgery.[S1]
Now, Spanish outlet Jijantes FC has stated that Rodri has 'given the okay' to Barcelona, while journalist Fabrice Hawkins claims his 'preference is to join' Barcelona. Hawkins said on X: 'Rodri's preference is to join Barcelona over Real Madrid, with both Manchester City and Real Madrid aware of the player's stance. Barcelona have held a long-standing interest in the midfielder, which intensified following Frenkie de Jong's injury. The club believe Rodri would be an ideal fit for Hansi Flick's system, while the player is understood to feel he would thrive in Barcelona's style of play. Barcelona must now find the financial resources to make a deal possible. An offer in the region of €60–70m could be enough to satisfy Manchester City.'[S4]
Manchester City's Stance and Potential Replacements
City sources have previously told BBC Sport they are "counting on" the player for next season, while a significant fee would need to be offered to even consider a sale of the player. A move to Barca would allow Rodri to join the title winners for the past two seasons and unite with national team compatriots Ferran Torres, Lamine Yamal, Pau Cubarsi and Pedri. However, he may enjoy a quick reunion with ex-City team-mate Bernardo Silva, who joined Real on a free this summer, and the club will be led by the returning Jose Mourinho.[S1]
Rodri has won four Premier League titles, the Champions League and two FA Cups since joining City in 2019 and has established himself as being not only integral to the side, but as one of the best midfielders in the world. Having already lost Silva this summer, losing Rodri would be a significant blow and would require one of Mateo Kovacic, Nico Gonzalez or Tijjani Reijnders to step up, with all three featuring in pre-season so far. Club record signing Elliot Anderson is set to be a starter, so there would be a big hole to fill alongside the England international. City remain in talks to sign 18-year-old midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi from Lille, but it would be a big ask for the Moroccan teenager to fill such esteemed boots.[S1]
