A fresh twist has emerged in Spain’s World Cup-winning midfielder Rodri’s future at Manchester City, with transfer insider Fabrizio Romano reporting that the Spaniard has opened doors to Barcelona for the very first time. According to Romano, citing Jijantes FC and Nil Solà, Rodri has informed the club of his willingness to negotiate contract terms, though Barcelona is said to be treading carefully, with Real Madrid also heavily in the picture. The 30-year-old’s final call to his current club remains the deciding factor.
🚨🔵🔴 BREAKING: Rodri has opened doors to Barcelona today, informing about his willingness to negotiate contract terms.
Rodri opens to Barça for the very first time, as @JijantesFC @Nilsola10 reported.
Barça remain careful with Real Madrid involved — until his final decision… pic.twitter.com/qmRe0RcE6I
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 6, 2026
Barcelona Move Complicated By Real Madrid’s Long-Standing Interest
Real Madrid has been strongly linked with Rodri for over a year, with head coach Xabi Alonso viewing him as his top target to replace the creative void left by Toni Kroos and Luka Modric. Reports this week suggested City are demanding a fee north of €75 million for the 2024 Ballon d’Or winner, while Madrid have so far been unwilling to go beyond €50-60 million, leaving a significant gap between the two clubs.
City’s Last Chance To Cash In
Rodri’s contract at the Etihad runs until June 2027, meaning this could be Manchester City’s final opportunity to secure a substantial fee before running the risk of losing their star midfielder on a free transfer next year. Pep Guardiola’s side had previously offered a bumper new deal to keep him beyond that date, but the midfielder has so far been in no rush to sign.
Barcelona’s revived interest comes after Frenkie de Jong’s injury exposed a gap in Hansi Flick’s midfield, prompting the Catalan club to step up its efforts in recent weeks. However, their move for Rodri, fresh off winning the World Cup Golden Ball with Spain, will ultimately depend on how his decision plays out against Real Madrid’s long-term pursuit of the midfielder.
