Barcelona have increased their bid in their pursuit of Manchester City midfielder Rodri, with negotiations between the two clubs gathering pace.
According to the latest reports, Barcelona have submitted a second offer worth approximately €65 million plus €5 million in add-ons after their initial bid was rejected by Manchester City.
City, however, are still demanding a higher fee. Reports indicate that the English club value Rodri’s transfer at around €80 million, meaning there remains a financial gap between the two sides.
Barcelona have been closely monitoring Rodri during this transfer window and believe the midfielder could provide a long-term solution in the middle of the park. The 30-year-old also appears open to a new challenge, with reports suggesting that he has no plans to extend his contract with Manchester City.
Rodri has been an important part of Manchester City since joining the club from Atlético Madrid in 2019. His ability to operate as a defensive midfielder while also initiating attacks has made him one of the most influential midfielders in Europe.
Manchester City, meanwhile, have also begun preparing for the possibility of losing Rodri. Recent reports indicate that City are working on a move for Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, potentially signalling preparations for changes in midfield should Rodri leave.
Barcelona currently appear increasingly confident of completing the deal, but a final agreement between the two clubs has yet to be reached. Negotiations are continuing as Barcelona seek to reach a fee that Manchester City will accept.
If the transfer goes through, Rodri will return to La Liga after leaving Atlético Madrid in 2019 and could also link up with several of his Spain teammates in the Barcelona squad.
