Manchester City midfielder Rodri has made his position clear after Barcelona showed interest in signing him from the Premier League champions in recent hours.
According to Spanish newspaper AS, Barcelona has been monitoring Rodri’s situation, with the Spanish international entering the final year of his contract. The Catalan club joins a list of top European sides, including Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich, that have expressed interest in the midfielder.
Related topics
However, Rodri has reportedly made up his mind. If he leaves Manchester City, his only preferred destination is Real Madrid.
Despite receiving interest from several elite clubs, the midfielder’s priority is to wear the famous white shirt. His desire to return to Spain and Madrid, combined with his impressive performances at the FIFA Club World Cup and José Mourinho’s approval, has encouraged Real Madrid to seriously consider pursuing the transfer.
Rodri’s preference is well known among the clubs chasing his signature. Although Barcelona has made initial inquiries through the player’s representatives, the club has not yet opened talks with Manchester City, according to Cadena SER.
Barcelona’s interest intensified following Frenkie de Jong’s injury, but the Catalan club is fully aware that Rodri’s priority is Real Madrid.
In addition, Barcelona has other transfer priorities this summer. The club is focused on completing the signing of João Cancelo and bringing in a new striker following Robert Lewandowski’s departure. Combined with the €110 million already spent on Anthony Gordon, Karim Adeyemi, and Jesse Bisiwu, paying an additional €75 million for Rodri appears highly unlikely.
Real Madrid remains optimistic about completing the deal while proceeding with caution. Manchester City is reportedly demanding €75 million for the midfielder, but the Spanish giants believe they can negotiate the fee down to around €60 million.
The move will also depend on Real Madrid creating space in their squad. The club currently has only one available registration spot, meaning at least one player would need to leave before Rodri’s arrival can be finalized.
