FC Barcelona are closing in on a blockbuster agreement with Manchester City for Spanish international midfielder Rodri, following intense negotiations between sporting directors Deco and Hugo Viana in recent days.
The Catalan giants have identified the midfield maestro as their primary summer transfer target. After seeing an initial €50 million bid swiftly turned down and an improved €60 million package also rejected, Barcelona have now launched a third official proposal worth approximately €70 million plus performance-related add-ons. This revised structure significantly bridges the gap to City's €80 million valuation.
Rodri returned to Manchester on Thursday to begin recovery work ahead of the new season, though he has not yet resumed full team training. His future remains subject to intense speculation, further fueled by Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca's recent comments when asked about the player's status: "Anything can happen."
With roughly two weeks remaining before the summer transfer window shuts, Barcelona's hierarchy is working against the clock. Beyond securing Rodri for head coach Hansi Flick, Deco continues to manage parallel operations including negotiations for Julian Alvarez, finalizing a permanent move for Joao Cancelo, and facilitating player departures such as Marc Casado to balance the wage bill.