Barcelona open talks with Rodri representatives over possible Manchester City move

Barcelona have opened talks with Rodri’s representatives as they consider a move for the Manchester City midfielder during the current transfer window.

According to The Athletic, discussions have taken place to establish the conditions that would be required for a potential deal. No agreement has been reached, with negotiations over a transfer fee with Manchester City expected to be the main obstacle for any interested club.

Rodri, who captains Spain, is attracting attention from both Barcelona and Real Madrid. Barcelona’s interest has become more pressing after the injury suffered by Frenkie de Jong, which is expected to keep the midfielder out for a lengthy period.

The Catalan club are therefore exploring alternatives in central midfield as they assess how to strengthen their squad. Their interest in Rodri is also linked to the player’s suitability for their style of play and the possibility that he could settle quickly at the club.

A number of Rodri’s Spain team-mates are already part of the Barcelona squad, a factor which is understood to make the club’s project appealing to the 30-year-old midfielder.

Real Madrid remain interested in signing Rodri and had previously begun taking steps towards a possible deal. Reaching an agreement with the player is not expected to be especially complicated, but talks with Manchester City over the value of the transfer could prove far more difficult for both Spanish clubs.

Rodri’s contract with Manchester City runs until the end of next season. There have been no strong indications so far that he is close to extending that agreement, increasing the uncertainty around his future.

The midfielder has previously expressed a desire to return to La Liga during his career and has welcomed the idea of playing for Real Madrid. His preference for a return to Spain has contributed to the speculation surrounding his next move, although Manchester City remain the club with which he is contracted.

Barcelona have already strengthened their attacking options with several signings this summer and continue to look for another forward. Their pursuit of Rodri would represent a separate effort to address an important midfield issue following De Jong’s injury.

Rodri is regarded as one of the leading midfielders in world football. He played a major role in Spain’s 2026 World Cup triumph after producing a series of impressive performances throughout the tournament.

Since joining Manchester City in 2019, he has also helped the club win several major honours, most notably the UEFA Champions League and the Premier League. Those achievements, together with his importance to both Manchester City and Spain, are likely to make any agreement on a transfer fee a significant part of the negotiations.

For now, Barcelona’s contact with Rodri’s representatives is at the stage of assessing the terms of a possible move. The club must still find a way to reach an agreement with Manchester City, while Real Madrid continue to monitor the situation.