BARCELONA are ready to battle bitter rivals Real Madrid for Manchester City midfielder Rodri in a transfer war that could have huge consequences for Manchester United.
The Spain midfielder is entering the final year of his City contract and is understood to be keen on returning to his homeland.
Rodri in action for Manchester City during May’s FA Cup final against Chelsea Credit: Getty
Rodri has been City’s most important player over the past few years, netting the winner against Inter Milan in the 2023 Champions League final Credit: Richard Pelham / The Jattvibe
City have already offered the 30-year-old fresh terms, but know he wants to explore a move back to Spain before committing his future.
Real Madrid had looked to be leading the race after Rodri captained Spain to World Cup glory and picked up the tournament’s Golden Ball award.
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But Barcelona have now officially entered the chase as they look to tempt Rodri with the chance to become the latest Spain international to join Hansi Flick‘s side.
Rodri is said to be attracted by Barcelona’s project, with many of his Spain team-mates already at the Camp Nou.
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The Catalan giants also arrive full of confidence after beating Real Madrid to the last two La Liga titles, while beating them in six out of seven meetings in all competitions during that time.
Rodri is being tipped to step into the shoes once occupied by his former teammate Sergio Busquests, who became a master of his craft in defensive midfield.
Whoever wins the battle to sign Rodri may well gain a psychological advantage in the war – which is the showdown for the 2026/27 La Liga title.
Real Madrid still lead the race, and move to the Spanish capital could also trigger a domino effect involving Manchester United.
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Wherever Rodri goes could impact whether United sign Aurelien Tchouameni or not Credit: Alamy Live News.
Eight Barcelona players were in the Spain squad this summer, and will no doubt be keen on Rodri joining them at club level Credit: Getty
It was revealed last month that Jose Mourinho is prepared to sell Aurelien Tchouameni if it helps fund a blockbuster move for Rodri, with United having already made enquiries over the France international.
Michael Carrick is understood to be keen on adding a specialist holding midfielder alongside summer arrivals Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans, while Tchouameni’s age, experience and availability make him an attractive option.
But if Barcelona manage to hijack Real’s pursuit of Rodri and he goes to Catalonia, then Real Madrid will have no intention of selling Tchouameni to United.
Real, meanwhile, are also closing in on tying Vinicius Jr to a new long-term contract after positive talks this week.
According to Fabrizio Romano, negotiations are understood to be in their final stages, with only the final details remaining before Mourinho gets his wish of keeping one of Madrid’s biggest stars at the Bernabeu.
