Rodri chooses Barça over Real, sparking a €60‑70m tug‑of‑war

In the latest Mercato news, 30‑year‑old Spanish midfielder Rodri has signalled his preference for Barcelona over Real Madrid, with the Catalan club now leading the chase for the world‑champion who still has one year left on his Manchester City contract and could fetch between €60‑70 million.

While his name had been linked primarily to Real Madrid in recent weeks, Rodri ultimately chose Barça, prompting the Catalan side to enter the race for the midfielder fresh from Spain’s World Cup triumph.

Manchester City have indicated they could allow the departure if a suitable offer emerges; the club had hoped to retain him for another season but says it will respect the player’s decision.

Rodri, 30, has one year remaining on his English contract and was a key figure in City’s 2023 Champions League victory and the 2024 Ballon d’Or winner.

Le FC Barcelone's patient pressure on Rodri amid Real Madrid rumours

City hope to receive €80 million for the midfielder but are prepared to accept a €60‑70 million proposal from Barcelona, noting the clubs maintain good relations even after Pep Guardiola’s exit.

Barcelona’s hierarchy have been working behind the scenes on the deal for several weeks, a process complicated by Frenkie de Jong’s serious knee‑ligament injury sustained at the World Cup.

Rodri’s summer dilemma: City contract versus Real or Barcelona chase

The Catalan club also continues its search for a new number 9, with Julian Alvarez remaining on their radar.

The contrast between Barcelona’s aggressive pursuit and Real’s missed opportunity highlights a transfer window that could reshape the midfield landscape, with negotiations set to intensify in the coming days.