Manchester City have rejected a second offer from Barcelona for Spanish midfielder Rodri, with negotiations over a potential transfer continuing between the two clubs.
Barcelona reportedly returned with an improved proposal worth around £51.3 million, plus a further £5 million in potential add-ons, after their initial offer for the midfielder was turned down. City have again rejected the proposal and are understood to be seeking a significantly higher fee.
The latest development has created fresh uncertainty over Rodri’s future at the Etihad Stadium. The Spanish midfielder is reportedly interested in returning to Spain and joining Barcelona, but the two clubs remain apart on the valuation of the player.
Manchester City are reportedly looking for a package of around £70 million before considering Rodri’s departure. Other reports have put City’s minimum acceptable figure somewhere between £60 million and £70 million, highlighting the significant gap between the clubs’ positions.
Barcelona’s pursuit of Rodri has been ongoing, with the Catalan club previously making an opening offer of approximately £38.5 million. That proposal was also rejected by City, who indicated that they would require a substantially higher fee for the experienced midfielder.
Rodri’s reported desire to join Barcelona could become an important factor in the negotiations. The Spain international is understood to be keen on a move to Camp Nou, while Barcelona are looking to strengthen their midfield with an established player capable of controlling games at the highest level.
However, Manchester City are not prepared to allow the player to leave for a fee they consider below his value.
The situation has also prompted City to consider possible replacements should Rodri eventually leave. One of the players reportedly being considered is Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernández.
City’s interest in Fernández could lead to another major transfer negotiation, although Chelsea are understood to value the Argentina international at around £120 million. That figure would make a potential deal significantly more expensive than the amount Barcelona are currently offering for Rodri.
The developments suggest that Manchester City are preparing for different possibilities while continuing to negotiate over Rodri’s future.
Rodri remains one of the most important midfielders in the squad and has played a major role in City’s success in recent seasons. His departure would therefore represent a significant change to the team’s midfield structure.
Barcelona, meanwhile, must decide whether to improve their offer or reconsider their pursuit of the player. The club’s interest in Rodri has remained strong, but City’s valuation could prove to be the biggest obstacle to completing the deal.
With the transfer window still open, further negotiations are expected between the two clubs. Barcelona could return with another proposal, particularly if they remain convinced that Rodri is the right player to strengthen their squad.
For now, however, Manchester City have made their position clear by rejecting Barcelona’s latest bid.
The coming days could determine whether the two clubs move closer to an agreement or whether Rodri remains at the Etihad Stadium for another season.
Source: Thepressradio.com
