Barcelona have begun official talks with Manchester City over a potential deal for Rodri, with the Catalan club confident they can complete the signing of the 30-year-old midfielder.
The discussions between the two clubs are focused on the terms of a possible transfer, according to the latest report from transfer insider Fabrizio Romano. Barcelona representatives believe an agreement will be reached and are continuing negotiations directly with Manchester City.
The Spanish champions are prepared to pay slightly more than €45m for Rodri. However, Manchester City are asking for a higher fee, meaning the two sides still need to bridge the gap in their valuations.
Talks remain ongoing, with both clubs involved in direct discussions over the midfielder’s transfer. No agreement has yet been stated, but Barcelona’s confidence in concluding the deal has been made clear.
Rodri has already given Barcelona his approval. The midfielder has rejected Real Madrid because he wants to play for Hansi Flick’s side, giving the Catalan club a significant advantage in the negotiations.
His decision means Barcelona can continue discussions with Manchester City knowing that the player is willing to join them. The remaining issue is therefore centred on the terms acceptable to both clubs, particularly the size of the transfer fee.
Barcelona’s offer is currently just above €45m, while Manchester City want more for the 30-year-old. The clubs are maintaining direct contact as they work towards resolving that difference.
The report also confirms that Rodri turned down Real Madrid, despite interest from the Madrid club. His preference is to represent Barcelona under Hansi Flick, and he has responded positively to the possibility of moving to the Spanish champions.
For Barcelona, that agreement from the player has strengthened their position as negotiations continue. For Manchester City, the focus is on securing a fee above the amount currently being proposed by the Catalan club.
The transfer remains under discussion, but Barcelona’s official approach and Rodri’s willingness to join have placed the deal at an advanced stage of negotiations.