Barcelona have reached an agreement in principle with Manchester City for the signing of Spain midfielder Rodri, in a major transfer that could reshape the Catalan club’s midfield.
The agreement is understood to be worth around €70 million, with reports indicating that the package includes a fixed fee and performance-related add-ons. Spanish media have reported that the clubs have reached a verbal agreement, with the formal exchange of documents still required.
Rodri is expected to sign a four-year contract with Barcelona, keeping him at the club until 2030.
The 30-year-old is returning to Spain after seven years at Manchester City, where he developed into one of the world’s leading defensive midfielders and a key figure in Pep Guardiola’s side.
Rodri joined City from Atletico Madrid in 2019 and played a central role in their success, helping the club win multiple Premier League titles and the Champions League in 2023.
He scored the winning goal in the Champions League final against Inter Milan and reached the pinnacle of his individual career in 2024 when he won the Ballon d’Or after starring for both City and Spain.
Barcelona believe his ability to control possession, dictate the tempo and provide defensive protection will add greater authority to their midfield.
For City, however, Rodri’s departure represents a significant blow. His influence extended far beyond his defensive duties, with his passing, positioning and ability to control the rhythm of matches making him one of the most important players in their system.
City had previously rejected lower offers from Barcelona, with the Spanish club increasing their proposal before the latest breakthrough.
Rodri’s departure also leaves Manchester City facing the difficult task of finding a suitable replacement, with Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernández among the players reportedly considered.
The move marks a significant return to La Liga for Rodri and gives Barcelona a Ballon d’Or-winning midfielder capable of becoming the focal point of their midfield for years to come.
For City, meanwhile, replacing a player who has been central to their success could prove one of the biggest challenges of the new season.
