Barcelona evaluate move for Real Madrid target as they enter market for midfield reinforcements | OneFootball

According to journalist Matteo Moretto on Radio MARCA, FC Barcelona have commenced internal evaluations to identify a new defensive midfielder, with Manchester City captain Rodri emerging as a prominent profile on their recruitment shortlist.

The sporting department’s search for a reliable central pivot has been accelerated by the severe knee injury suffered by Dutch international Frenkie de Jong, which has left head coach Hansi Flick with a notable lack of experienced depth in the central core of his squad.

Barcelona collect preliminary information

As such, the Barcelona sporting management view Rodri as a player who possesses the exact tactical specifications, physical presence, and passing efficiency required to succeed in Barcelona’s midfield system.

However, the club’s current involvement in the race remains strictly exploratory.

Barcelona are interested in Rodri. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

The Blaugrana have only gathered preliminary market information and made initial contact with intermediaries to understand the feasibility of an operation.

The board has not yet submitted any formal proposals, as they continue to balance their ongoing financial salary cap limitations against the high economic costs of a potential transfer.

Real Madrid and Manchester City in active talks

While Barcelona remain in the information-gathering phase, arch-rivals Real Madrid have moved into a much more advanced stage of the transfer process.

Real Madrid and Manchester City have officially opened direct club-to-club talks to determine the potential final price required to sanction a deal before the end of the summer transfer window.

The Premier League giants are asking for a transfer fee structured between €50 million and €60 million to part with their 30-year-old midfielder, despite him entering the final 12 months of his contract.

Where will Rodri play next season? (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

The Spanish club’s board wants to spend a lower amount, using the player’s short contract duration as leverage to reduce the fixed upfront fee.

Rodri’s stance

Amidst all this, Rodri’s underlying career plan remains completely clear. The World Cup winner has informed his inner circle that if he formally leaves Manchester City this summer, his absolute priority is to return to Spain.

This personal preference gives both La Liga suitors significant encouragement, though Real Madrid’s active negotiations and the player’s family roots in the Spanish capital currently give them the competitive advantage over Barcelona in closing the deal.