Manchester City has accepted FC Barcelona’s transfer offer for captain and star midfielder Rodri.
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Manchester City has reportedly accepted FC Barcelona’s latest transfer offer for captain and star midfielder Rodri, according to sources including Fabrizio Romano and Mundo Deportivo.
According to COPE’s Victor Navarro, the final transfer fee is €65 million in fixed payments, with an additional €5 million in potential bonuses.
Rodri is anticipated to travel to Barcelona soon to undergo a medical examination and sign a four-year contract until 2030, prior to the Gamper Trophy match.
This development concludes a rapid transfer saga that commenced last Thursday.
Reports emerged that negotiations between City and Real Madrid had collapsed, amid speculation of a move to the Bernabéu for the Spanish captain.
Subsequently, Barcelona emerged as a leading contender for the 30-year-old, who was named the Best Player at the World Cup after guiding Spain to their second FIFA World Cup victory.
A conversation with Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick was instrumental in persuading Rodri of the club’s project at the Spotify Camp Nou. He quickly approved the move, which is poised to be one of the most significant transfers in the club’s history.
On Spanish radio, Rodri’s agent confirmed that his client favored a move to Barcelona over Real Madrid, despite the latter’s competitive personal offer.
Negotiations between Barcelona and Manchester City commenced after Rodri agreed to personal terms. Barcelona’s initial bid of €45 million was rejected, although RAC1 reported a potential €50 million agreement.
However, multiple sources in Catalonia and England disputed that claim, which was later proven inaccurate.
Barcelona’s second offer, submitted this Thursday, was for €60 million plus add-ons, bringing the total proposed amount to €70 million.
This offer was also rejected, but after several failed attempts, Barcelona’s Sporting Director Deco finally secured an agreement.
Rodri Set to Transform Barcelona’s Midfield
Although Barcelona’s midfield is traditionally strong, the signing of Rodri provides a significant enhancement in quality.
Coach Flick has multiple options for midfield combinations, and Rodri’s added control will aid Barcelona’s advancement in the Champions League.
Rodri has previously won the Champions League with Manchester City in 2023, whereas Barcelona has not secured the title in over a decade, despite semifinal and quarterfinal exits under Flick.
Additionally, Rodri will enable Barcelona to press higher in attack. Moreover, the team’s high defensive line will be better protected, providing ideal mentorship for young talents like Lamine Yamal and Marc Bernal.