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Manchester City have rejected an opening offer of £38.5 million from Barcelona for midfielder Rodri, with the Premier League champions insisting they would demand a fee above £60 million for the Spain international. The 30-year-old midfielder has entered the final year of his contract at the Etihad Stadium and is yet to agree a new deal, fuelling uncertainty over his future this summer. As reported by BBC Sport on Friday, Barcelona have emerged as the leading contenders for Rodri's signature after receiving encouragement from the player's camp to begin negotiations with City. The Catalan club submitted their first formal offer on Friday, but it was immediately turned down. City are willing to consider a sale but want a significant fee for the 2024 Ballon d'Or winner, who remains one of the most influential defensive midfielders in world football. Rodri had previously been linked with a move to Real Madrid, but reports indicate that talks with the Spanish giants have now ended as Barcelona push ahead with their interest. Barcelona sources said discussions with the player's representatives are ongoing, although no agreement has been reached between the clubs. Rodri's recent seasons have been affected by injuries, including a serious knee problem that ruled him out for much of the 2024-25 campaign and a hamstring issue that disrupted his return. However, he regained his best form at the World Cup, where he helped Spain secure their second title and was named the tournament's best player. EPL: Why Newcastle sold Guimaraes to Arsenal – Official VIDEO: I think my son will be bigger than me — Ronaldo England's Toney charged with assault after London nightclub incident The midfielder is currently recovering from back surgery and is expected to return to Manchester next week to continue his rehabilitation with City. With the transfer window entering its second week of August, City are keen to resolve Rodri's future quickly as they look to identify a possible replacement. The club are also in talks over a move for 18-year-old Morocco midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi from Lille, although the French side's £86 million valuation remains a major obstacle. Meanwhile, reports from Spain suggest Real Madrid made a strong attempt to sign Rodri after Spain's World Cup success. According to Spanish radio station Cadena Ser, Rodri's agent Pablo Barquero confirmed that Real Madrid presented an attractive offer and held positive discussions with the player's representatives. The report stated that Real Madrid officials, including president Florentino Perez and chief executive Jose Angel Sanchez, made significant efforts to complete the deal. However, Rodri eventually decided to pursue another option, leading Real Madrid to end their interest and avoid prolonging negotiations. Barcelona's renewed push now places them at the centre of the race for the midfielder, as City prepare to determine the future of one of their most valuable players. Gilbert Ekugbe Gilbert Ekugbe is a journalist at Punch Newspapers with over a decade of experience reporting on business and economic affairs. He covers markets, corporate developments, finance, and Nigeria's broader economic landscape. His reporting is informed by extensive newsroom experience and a strong commitment to accuracy and responsible journalism, helping readers understand complex business issues.
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