Barcelona Target Rodri as De Jong Injury Raises Midfield Need
Barcelona are pursuing Rodri as they look to strengthen their midfield following Frenkie de Jong’s knee injury, which is expected to keep him out for several months. The Manchester City midfielder is in the final year of his contract, while Barcelona have stepped up their interest after Real Madrid’s talks over a move stalled.
According to Marca, Barcelona are aiming to complete negotiations with City within 48 hours, although those involved have doubts about whether the target can be met. Marca also reported that City manager Enzo Maresca said Rodri would be in Manchester on Friday unless the situation changes.
Earlier reporting from the Guardian said City had not given up hope of a new contract but were thought willing to allow Rodri to leave for about £60m. The report said Rodri spoke with Barcelona manager Hansi Flick and sporting director Deco about a potential move and indicated that he was keen to return to Spain.
Marca reported that Barcelona’s initial €50m offer was rejected, with City seeking around €70m. It added that the clubs were trying to settle on a package worth between €60m and €65m, including variables. Separate supplementary reporting described speculation that City could seek about €80m, while also reporting that a final agreement could be reached at around €65m including bonuses.
A Yahoo Sports report citing SPORT said Rodri had agreed personal terms with Barcelona on a four-year contract, leaving the fee between the clubs as the main issue. The Guardian’s report did not provide details of any proposed contract terms.
Rodri, 30, was Spain’s World Cup-winning captain and won the Golden Ball as the tournament’s best player. He has had minor back surgery and is expected to miss most of City’s pre-season programme.
Barcelona’s pursuit is unfolding alongside separate business involving Atlético Madrid forward Julián Alvarez. The Guardian reported that Deco met Alvarez’s representatives in the Spanish capital on Wednesday, although Atlético continue to insist that the Argentina striker is not for sale. Real Madrid have signed Yan Diomande for a club-record £115m and agreed a six-year contract extension with Vinícius Júnior. The report added that Aurélien Tchouaméni and Eduardo Camavinga were possible departures if Real were to pursue Rodri.
Barcelona’s attempt to reach an agreement within 48 hours comes with the fee still unresolved and the possibility of Rodri returning to Manchester on Friday, as reported by Marca.
