Barcelona Step Up Rodri Interest as Real Madrid Talks Stall 2026

Barcelona have stepped up their attempts to sign Rodri from Manchester City, as Real Madrid's negotiations with the Spanish midfielder continue to stall. The 30-year-old World Cup winner is keen to return to Spain, and Barcelona are hoping to hijack the deal with a £60 million offer.

Rodri's Potential Move to Barcelona

Rodri, who won the Golden Ball at the 2022 World Cup, has entered the final year of his contract with Manchester City. While City have not given up hope of extending his deal, they are reportedly willing to let him leave for around £60 million. Barcelona have already spoken to Rodri's representatives, and the player has indicated his desire to join the Catalan club.

Barcelona's interest has intensified following a knee injury to Frenkie de Jong, which will sideline the Dutch midfielder for several months. The club's manager, Hansi Flick, and sporting director, Deco, have been in direct contact with Rodri, and a move could materialize in the coming weeks.

Real Madrid's Stalled Negotiations

Real Madrid, who have already signed Yan Diomande for a club-record £115 million, have been in talks with Rodri for weeks but have failed to reach an agreement. The club has also secured a lucrative six-year contract extension for Vinícius Júnior, which may limit their financial flexibility. To sign Rodri, Real may need to offload players like Aurélien Tchouaméni or Eduardo Camavinga, both of whom have been linked with Manchester United.

Rodri's Injury and Pre-Season

Rodri recently underwent minor back surgery and will miss most of Manchester City's pre-season program. This could affect his fitness ahead of the new season, but it hasn't deterred Barcelona from pursuing the midfielder. City, meanwhile, have signed Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest for £116 million and are negotiating with Lille for 18-year-old Ayyoub Bouaddi.

Comparison: Rodri vs. Current Barcelona Midfielders

Key Takeaways

• Barcelona are actively pursuing Rodri to strengthen their midfield after De Jong's injury.
• Real Madrid's talks with Rodri have stalled, opening the door for a Barcelona hijack.
• Manchester City are willing to sell for £60m but prefer to extend his contract.
• Rodri's back surgery may affect his early-season availability.

What's Next for Barcelona and Real Madrid?

Barcelona are expected to contact Manchester City to negotiate the fee structure for Rodri. Meanwhile, their pursuit of Julián Alvarez from Atlético Madrid has hit a wall, as Atlético insist the striker is not for sale. Deco met with Alvarez's representatives in Madrid, but no progress has been made.

For Real Madrid, the priority is to resolve their midfield situation. If they cannot sign Rodri, they may focus on retaining Tchouaméni and Camavinga, or look for alternatives in the transfer market.

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