Barcelona move for Rodri after Hansi Flick call changes transfer picture

Barcelona have intensified their pursuit of Manchester City midfielder Rodri after head coach Hansi Flick spoke to the Spain international by telephone to outline the club’s sporting project and encourage him to prioritise a move to Camp Nou.

According to Spanish newspaper Sport, Flick’s call in recent hours underlines the seriousness of Barcelona’s interest and has altered the direction of negotiations. Real Madrid had appeared to be in the strongest position in recent weeks, but their failure to take decisive steps has left the proposed transfer increasingly open.

Rodri had previously been widely expected to favour a move to Real Madrid. However, Sport reports that the 29-year-old is no longer ruling out joining Barcelona, meaning the two Spanish rivals are now competing directly for his signature.

Barcelona regard Rodri as an outstanding opportunity in the transfer market, although the club is not prepared to overpay to complete the deal. The Catalan side remains convinced that his quality and experience would make him an important addition to Flick’s plans.

Sport says sporting director Deco has continued to speak to people close to the player. He has also made initial enquiries with a Manchester City official to establish the English club’s position, with Barcelona’s efforts becoming more active in recent days.

Flick is not the only person attempting to persuade Rodri. Several Barcelona players, led by Lamine Yamal, are understood to have spoken with him during Spain gatherings, both around the World Cup and afterwards.

Those players are reported to have described the atmosphere within Barcelona’s dressing room and praised the project being developed under Flick. Their aim has been to convince Rodri that a move to Camp Nou would be the right next step in his career.

Barcelona’s first priority in the transfer window remains strengthening their attack. Nevertheless, the club does not want to miss the chance to sign a player of Rodri’s stature.

The midfielder is regarded as one of the best defensive midfielders in world football and is the winner of the Ballon d’Or. He also has only one year remaining on his contract with Manchester City, a factor that could make his situation particularly significant in the transfer market.

Barcelona are waiting for a firm decision from Rodri before beginning financial negotiations. The club’s officials appreciate that he has currently frozen discussions with Real Madrid while he considers every option.

However, Barcelona also recognise that the situation is unlikely to remain unresolved for long. The Catalan club must establish whether Rodri is genuinely open to joining them before committing to the next stage of talks.

Rodri’s potential transfer had appeared to be moving towards Real Madrid, but Barcelona’s intervention has changed the balance of the contest. With Flick’s personal approach, Deco’s contacts and the encouragement of Yamal and other Spain team-mates, the midfielder’s next destination is now far less certain.