Rodri makes major transfer decision between Barcelona and Real Madrid | OneFootball

Manchester City and Spain’s Rodri appears to have selected FC Barcelona as his preferred destination in the ongoing summer transfer window.

The FIFA World Cup winning captain of 2026 has seen his future thrown into doubt ever since securing success in North America with Spain, whilst simultaneously entering into the final 12 months of his Manchester City contract.

Whilst City officials unsurprisingly want to retain the services of one of their greatest-ever players, and their best in terms of individual and collective accolades, there is a growing number of reports indicating that a move to Spain may be on the cards.

Following indications in some quarters that negotiations involving Real Madrid had began to stall, the emergence of Barcelona in the chase for the Manchester City superstar on Thursday suggested a shift in momentum surrounding the player.

Rodri chooses Barcelona over Real Madrid

Now, according to RMC Sport’s Fabrice Hawkins, Rodri has chosen Barcelona as his preferred next destination, with those at Real Madrid having now been informed of such a decision and desire.

From the side of Manchester City, the Premier League club are also said to have been informed of the update surrounding their star midfielder, which will therefore trigger negotiations between those at the Etihad Stadium and Barcelona.

Manchester City reportedly hope to receive €80 million for Rodri but could accept an offer between €60 million and €70 million from Barcelona, with whom relations are said to be ‘good’.

Man City continue Ayyoub Bouaddi pursuit

With Rodri seemingly on his way out of the Etihad Stadium this summer, whether it be to Real Madrid or Barcelona, those at Manchester City continue their pursuit of additional reinforcement in the centre of the park.

One such name long on the radar of Hugo Viana and colleagues is Lille and Morocco wonderkid Ayyoub Bouaddi, who was thrust into the spotlight through his starring performances at the World Cup, despite being just 18-years-old.

The French side are believed to be holding out for a fee around €100 million for the teenager and would prefer to retain his services for the 2026/27 season, although it seems as though City would prefer an immediate transfer to the club themselves.