Lamine Yamal and Rodri, two SPain stars
Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images
According to Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona’s position regarding Manchester City midfielder Rodri is straightforward: they are waiting to see whether the Spaniard changes his stance.
Until now, the club have believed the 30-year-old is focused on joining Real Madrid, meaning they have not seriously considered making a move.
Despite speculation that the Blaugrana are now leading the race, their current transfer priority remains signing a striker, with Julian Alvarez continuing to top their shortlist.
That said, if Rodri were to become genuinely attainable, Barcelona would seriously consider entering the race, even more so considering the injury to Frenkie de Jong.
Rodri of Manchester City
Barcelona like Rodri. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
The Catalan club value his quality, experience and leadership, even though strengthening midfield is not currently Hansi Flick’s main priority, as the coach himself made clear after the club’s training camp in England.
Barcelona would be open to exploring a move either this summer or next year, when Rodri’s contract expires on June 30, 2027, allowing him to leave as a free agent.
Whether Barcelona’s interest develops depends almost entirely on the player himself.
If Rodri were to inform the club that Barcelona is his preferred destination ahead of Real Madrid, the situation would change significantly and a genuine operation could begin.
Rodri #16 of Spain
Waiting for a move from the player. (Photo by Lars Baron/Getty Images)
Any deal would still be expensive given Rodri’s status and Manchester City’s demands, with reports suggesting a transfer fee in the region of €60-65 million.
Barcelona’s message regarding Rodri has been consistent.
“People say he wants to go to Madrid, and you can’t think about signing him if he hasn’t made it clear that he wants Barcelona. Until he decides he wants to follow that path at Camp Nou, there’s nothing serious to discuss,” a source told MD.
In other words, Barcelona believe the next move belongs entirely to Rodri, while their focus remains on a move for Alvarez.
For now, the Catalan club remain in wait-and-see mode, with any serious move depending first on a clear signal from the player himself.