Rodri set to turn down Real Madrid for Barcelona in surprise transfer swing

Rodri has reportedly chosen Barcelona over Real Madrid in a transfer decision that could significantly alter the balance of power between Spain’s two biggest clubs.

The Manchester City midfielder had been widely expected to favour a return to the Spanish capital, with Real Madrid considered the leading contenders to sign him. However, Barcelona have made a late move for the Spain international and are now understood to be his preferred destination.

The development, reported by Goal, represents a major setback for Real Madrid, who had revived their long-standing interest in Rodri after his impressive performances for Spain at the World Cup. The Madrid club were believed to hold a clear advantage in the race for his signature, but Barcelona have moved discreetly in recent days and appear to have overturned the situation.

Rodri is now closer to joining Barcelona than moving to Santiago Bernabeu, according to the report. The potential switch would see him wear the Catalan club’s colours rather than the famous white shirt of Real Madrid.

Although the transfer has not been completed, the midfielder’s reported preference for Barcelona could prove decisive. His decision to choose Camp Nou over Santiago Bernabeu would represent one of the most striking developments in the recent rivalry between the two clubs.

Barcelona are also expected to benefit from the timing of the deal. Rodri has only one season remaining on his contract with Manchester City, meaning the English club may have to consider a fee below the player’s market value if an agreement is reached.

That contract situation has created what is being described as a rare opportunity for Barcelona. A player of Rodri’s profile could become available for a relatively low fee because of the limited time remaining on his current agreement, making the proposed deal particularly attractive.

Real Madrid had appeared to be the natural destination for Rodri after re-establishing their interest in the midfielder. Their expectations were strengthened by the belief that the player would prefer a return to the Spanish capital. Barcelona’s late intervention, however, has changed the complexion of the pursuit.

The move would also carry significance beyond the transfer itself. Rodri’s choice would deliver a serious blow to Real Madrid while giving Barcelona the possibility of securing one of the most sought-after Spanish midfielders in a deal expected to be completed for less than his market valuation.

For now, the negotiations remain at the stage of a reported agreement in principle over the player’s preference rather than a confirmed transfer. But with Rodri said to have selected Barcelona, the club are now considered the closest to signing the Ballon d’Or winner and could complete one of the most notable deals of recent years.