Barcelona interest stalls Manchester City’s Real Madrid Rodri deal

After a tremendous World Cup campaign, Spain captain Rodri has become a hot topic in the transfer market. His contract with Manchester City expires at the end of next season, and the departure of Pep Guardiola has left his future at the Etihad in doubt. Real Madrid, under new boss Jose Mourinho, are eager to add the midfielder, while Barcelona have also signalled interest. The Spanish side need a replacement for the injured Frenkie de Jong, making Rodri a logical fit.

Manchester City are intentionally delaying negotiations with Real Madrid, according to reports. The club believes Barcelona will soon join the race for the Spanish international, which could push his valuation toward the €60‑75 million range. By stalling, City hope a bidding war will raise the price they can command. This strategy aligns with their need to protect assets as they navigate a post‑Guardiola era.

Real Madrid are ready to snap Rodri up this summer. Mourinho, desperate for midfield reinforcements, sees the Spain captain as a key addition to his new project. The club’s interest has been described as “undisputed” by sources, and Rodri himself is reportedly keen on playing for Los Blancos. The Merengues stand ready to meet City’s asking price should negotiations resume.

Barcelona’s interest is driven by a midfield gap created by de Jong’s injury. While Rodri would fit the bill, the Catalans’ immediate priority remains signing a new centre‑forward, with Julian Alvarez identified as their number‑one target. The club also faces the possible departure of Ferran Torres, meaning their upcoming weeks will focus more on attacking reinforcements than on a midfield overhaul. Consequently, Barcelona may not launch an all‑out bid for Rodri, but their involvement still reshapes the market.

If Barcelona enter the bidding war, Manchester City stand to benefit from a higher fee for Rodri. The potential competition could force Real Madrid to improve their offer, ensuring City receive a net positive return for the player. This dynamic underscores why City have chosen to delay the deal rather than finalize it immediately.

The next steps involve City monitoring Barcelona’s movements while Real Madrid prepare their proposal. Should the Catalans submit a formal offer, negotiations are expected to intensify this summer. Until then, Rodri’s future remains a major talking point across the Premier League and La Liga.