Barcelona could challenge Real Madrid in the race to sign Rodri, with the Manchester City midfielder’s current contract due to expire next summer.
Transfer insiders were discussing the possibility on Thursday, as interest grows in a player who could become available if his future at Manchester City remains unresolved. Real Madrid have also been linked with a move for the 30-year-old, creating the prospect of a battle between the two Spanish clubs for his signature.
According to The Athletic, Barcelona’s project appeals to Rodri for two main reasons. The first is the similarity between Barcelona’s style of play and the approach used by Manchester City. That familiarity could make a move to the Catalan club particularly attractive to the midfielder.
The second factor is the positive impression Rodri has heard about the atmosphere inside Barcelona’s dressing room. The midfielder is reportedly aware of the strong team environment at the club, which is another element contributing to his interest in the project.
Rodri’s current agreement with Manchester City is set to run out next summer. That contract situation has increased speculation about whether he could leave the club, although the information currently centres on interest from Barcelona and Real Madrid rather than a confirmed transfer.
Manchester City are understood to want about 75 million euros for the midfielder. That figure would make Rodri a significant investment for any club seeking to sign him, particularly with both Barcelona and Real Madrid reportedly considering the possibility of bringing him back to Spain.
The reported appeal of Barcelona’s playing style gives the club a distinctive advantage in the developing transfer picture. Rodri already plays in a system with similarities to the one used by Manchester City, while the reputation of Barcelona’s dressing-room atmosphere provides a separate personal attraction.
Real Madrid’s interest means Barcelona are not the only Spanish side being considered in connection with the midfielder. The possibility of the two clubs competing for Rodri adds another dimension to the situation as Manchester City’s position becomes increasingly important.
For now, the key details are Rodri’s age, his contract timeline and Manchester City’s reported valuation. The midfielder is 30, his existing deal expires next summer, and Manchester City are said to be seeking approximately 75 million euros for a transfer. Barcelona’s project is believed to appeal to him because of its footballing identity and the positive reports he has heard about life in the club’s dressing room.
