Rodri seeks Manchester City approval to delay return while Barcelona transfer talks near conclusion

Rodri has asked Manchester City for special permission to remain in Spain as negotiations over a possible move to Barcelona enter their final stages.

There is still no agreement between Barcelona and Manchester City, but all parties are hopeful that a deal can be reached in the coming days. If that happens, Rodri would be able to complete his move to the Spotify Camp Nou.

The midfielder’s holiday was due to end on Thursday, with the player expected to travel to England and report for Manchester City training on Friday morning. However, according to Spanish newspaper Sport, Rodri has requested authorisation from the club to remain in Spain while the discussions over his future continue.

Rodri’s preference is to wait for Barcelona and give the two clubs more time to resolve the small financial difference that remains between them. The player is hoping an agreement can be finalised so he can begin working under Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick.

The Spain international believes his absence from training could allow the negotiations to progress towards a conclusion. However, he is only prepared to stay away from Manchester City’s training base if the club grants him permission.

If Manchester City refuse the request, Rodri will return to training as scheduled.

Rodri was still in Madrid on Thursday. He was seen eating at Casa Lampazas as speculation over his next move continued.

The player had been expected to be in Manchester on Friday. Enzo Maresca had confirmed that Rodri would be in the city on that day, but the midfielder is now hoping Manchester City will allow him to remain in Spain until the discussions with Barcelona have been settled.

At present, the negotiations remain unresolved, although the gap between the two clubs is described as small. Barcelona are seeking to complete the agreement, while Rodri’s request reflects his desire to avoid returning to Manchester before his future has been decided.

He will therefore need Manchester City’s approval to delay his return. Without that consent, the midfielder is expected to report for training and continue with the club while Barcelona and Manchester City attempt to reach a final understanding.

The proposed move would take Rodri to the Spotify Camp Nou and place him under the management of Hansi Flick. For now, however, the transfer remains dependent on the two clubs closing the remaining financial difference in the negotiations.