Just in: Man City superstar says yes to Barcelona despite Real Madrid interest | OneFootball

In a huge development, journalist Gerard Romero on Jijantes FC has claimed that Manchester City and Spain midfielder Rodri has said ‘yes’ to joining FC Barcelona this summer.

It is well-documented that the Spanish international was a top target for the Blaugrana’s arch-rivals Real Madrid, who had agreed personal terms with the player and were involved in talks with his club.

However, delays in finalising an agreement opened the door for Barça, who have moved in swiftly and have secured a verbal affirmation from the 2026 FIFA World Cup winner.

Now, the Catalan giants are set to start working on finalising a deal for the former Ballon d’Or winner.

Convincing from Spain teammates and Flick

As already reported, Barcelona overtook Real Madrid in the race to sign Rodri in recent hours, after talks between them and Manchester City came to a standstill.

Rodri won the World Cup with eight Barcelona players. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)

The Catalans were then waiting for a signal from the 30-year-old midfielder to begin working on the operation.

Rodri’s teammates from the Spanish national team who play for Barcelona are understood to have been speaking to him in recent weeks to convince him to move to the Spotify Camp Nou.

Meanwhile, as reported just a while back, Barcelona manager Hansi Flick also personally spoke with the 2026 World Cup Golden Ball winner to discuss the club’s sporting project.

All these factors have seemingly convinced Rodri, who is now understood to have said yes to joining the La Liga champions.

Next steps

With affirmation received, Barcelona can now begin working on the finer details of the operation.

Barcelona set to steal Rodri from under Real Madrid’s noses. (Photo by Diego Souto/Getty Images)

The Catalans will need to agree a contract with the veteran midfielder, with his salary still expected to pose a challenge.

At the same time, the La Liga champions will have to hold talks with Manchester City to finalise a transfer fee for their ace.

Even though Rodri is in the final year of his contract at the Etihad Stadium, the Blaugrana are expected to demand a fee of around €60 million at least for him.

If the deal goes through, Rodri will be a brilliant addition for Barcelona. Even though they have plenty of options in midfield, the injury to Frenkie de Jong leaves Flick & co. short on option.

And, in Rodri, they will add a world-class player with proven pedigree and experience at the highest level, while the Spaniard will also be a good fit into the team stylistically.