Barcelona’s opening Rodri bid rejected by Manchester City

Manchester City have rejected Barcelona’s first offer for captain Rodri, with the Spanish club now expected to return with an improved proposal.

According to transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, Barcelona submitted an opening bid worth €45m, with a further €5m available in add-ons, in an attempt to sign the midfielder. Manchester City believe the offer falls well short of Rodri’s value and turned it down.

However, talks between the two clubs are continuing, and Barcelona are preparing to make another approach as they look to complete the deal.

Manchester City are seeking €80m before they agree to sell their captain. Rodri’s contract at the club runs until the summer of 2027, meaning City remain in a strong negotiating position despite Barcelona’s interest.

Rodri has made 298 appearances for Manchester City, scoring 28 goals and providing 32 assists. He has also established himself as an important figure for the club, with his current deal still having one year left to run after the end of the 2026-27 season.

Barcelona’s interest comes as the club prepare to defend their La Liga title. They have won the competition in each of the past two seasons, following strong competition from Real Madrid.

Barcelona will begin their La Liga campaign against Elche on 23 August. The fixture will be played at the Manuel Martinez Valero stadium.

Rodri has also played a leading role for Spain, guiding them to their second World Cup title after a 1-0 victory over Argentina.

The midfielder’s performances for Manchester City and Spain have made him a key target for Barcelona, but the difference between the Catalan club’s initial offer and City’s valuation is considerable. Barcelona’s first bid, including the potential add-ons, could reach €50m, while Manchester City want €80m for the player.

The next stage of negotiations will determine whether the two clubs can narrow that gap. For now, City have made clear that they do not consider Barcelona’s opening proposal sufficient, while Barcelona remain engaged in discussions and are expected to submit a new offer.

Rodri’s future is therefore unresolved, with his contract situation, his role as Manchester City captain and the club’s €80m asking price all central to the talks. Barcelona must decide whether to increase their proposal if they are to persuade Manchester City to part with the midfielder before the new season begins.