Manchester City had prepared for the possibility of Rodri leaving this summer, but the Premier League champions always expected any departure to happen on their own terms.
Throughout the transfer window, there had remained confidence within the club that the Spain midfielder could stay at the Etihad Stadium for another season if a suitable offer failed to arrive.
Interest from Real Madrid was never considered a surprise, given Rodri’s status as one of the world’s leading midfielders and his long-standing connection with Spanish football. However, Barcelona’s aggressive move into the race has significantly changed the landscape of the situation.
City have attempted to manage Rodri’s contract situation with respect, recognising the importance of the player since his arrival from Atletico Madrid. But in recent days, frustration has grown inside the club over the direction negotiations have taken.
Sources indicate that City believe increasing pressure is being placed on them to accept a fee significantly below their valuation of a midfielder they regard among the best in world football.
The club have been aware for several weeks that Rodri was open to a move away, but there is concern that the situation could develop into a prolonged transfer saga as the deadline approaches.
Real Madrid have reportedly been surprised by Barcelona’s involvement. Sources suggest they did not expect the Catalan club to have the financial capacity to compete for Rodri, particularly given Barcelona’s well-documented economic challenges.
City currently value the 2024 Ballon d’Or winner at around £70 million, while Barcelona are believed to feel they can complete a deal for considerably less.
The Catalan side’s opening proposal is reported to be worth £38.6 million plus potential add-ons, an offer that falls well short of City’s valuation. Real Madrid are also understood to be surprised by the figure, believing that if Rodri were available for less than £50 million, they would have attempted to complete a deal themselves.
There remains uncertainty over whether Barcelona can create the financial flexibility required to meet City’s demands, although expectations are that a second bid will arrive in the coming days.
Despite Rodri’s desire to join Barcelona and reports that personal terms have been verbally agreed, City are not prepared to approve a sale simply to accommodate his preferred destination.
Unless an offer closer to their valuation is presented, the club are willing to keep the midfielder for the final year of his contract and begin the new season with him in their squad.
The situation has also forced City to review their midfield planning. Lille teenager Ayyoub Bouaddi remains one of the club’s preferred targets, with significant progress reportedly made towards a potential move.
Should Rodri leave, City could also look to add another established midfielder. Enzo Maresca is understood to view Chelsea’s Enzo Fernandez as an ideal profile to strengthen the position if further investment becomes necessary.
With Barcelona considering an improved offer, Manchester City refusing to lower their valuation and Real Madrid monitoring developments, Rodri’s future has become one of the summer’s most closely watched transfer stories.
