FC Barcelona have made their biggest move yet in the summer transfer window, lodging a formal, improved offer of €60 million [approx. KSh8.95 billion] guaranteed plus add-ons to Manchester City for Spain captain and 2024 Ballon d’Or winner Rodri.
The proposal follows weeks of intense speculation regarding the 30-year-old’s future, coming on the heels of an initial €45 million [approx. KSh6.71 billion] bid from the Catalan giants that was swiftly rejected by City.
With Rodri now entering the final year of his contract at the Etihad Stadium and refusing extension offers, Manchester City find themselves under pressure to sanction a deal to prevent losing him on a free transfer next summer.
The saga began to gather pace during Spain’s triumphant World Cup campaign, where Rodri captained La Roja to glory and claimed the Golden Ball as the tournament’s best player.
Shortly after, news broke that the midfielder had informed City hierarchy of his desire to return to his homeland following the departure of Pep Guardiola, signaling an end to his decorated seven-year tenure in Manchester.
Initial interest from Real Madrid was quickly dismissed after Rodri’s agent confirmed the player had chosen Barcelona, having already held promising direct discussions with Barça manager Hansi Flick and sporting director Deco.
FC Barcelona view Rodri as an essential marquee signing, with captain Frenkie de Jong facing extended time on the sidelines due to a serious knee injury.
While Manchester City originally held out for a valuation closer to €80 million [approx. KES 11.93 billion], sources indicate the two clubs are now rapidly closing the gap.
City new manager Enzo Maresca confirmed the midfielder is scheduled to return to pre-season training on Friday, though Barcelona remain confident they can reach a complete compromise near €70 million [approx. KES 10.44 billion] overall before the week ends.
Should the transfer go through, Manchester City are expected to immediately redirect funds toward a move for Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernández as they look to rebuild their midfield engine room ahead of the Premier League kick-off.
