Rodri stance on Barcelona move as Real Madrid transfer battle heats up | OneFootball

Barcelona are considering a move to sign a new midfielder this summer, as they prepare to do without Frenkie de Jong for the next few months. Hansi Flick would welcome the addition of another option alongside the likes of Pedri, Gavi, Marc Bernal and Marc Casado (especially if the latter is sold), and in the last week, one name has emerged among all of the speculation: Rodri.

Rodri is expected to leave Manchester City this summer after making it clear that he does not intend to sign a new contract. His current deal expiring in 2027 means that he will be available on the market, and Barcelona have him as one of their leading targets to strengthen their midfield in wake of de Jong’s injury blow.

Their problem is that Real Madrid also want to sign Rodri, and according to Diario AS, the 2026 World Cup Golden Ball winner has informed all interested parties that his desire is to move to the Bernabeu this summer. On the back of this, Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich have dropped out of the race, and while Barcelona are still there, they must rely on their El Clasico rivals ending their own interest before they can act.

Rodri would be a gamechanging signing for Barcelona

Rodri is said to prefer a return to the Spanish capital, where he previously played for Atletico Madrid, above all else, which is why Real Madrid appeals to him most. His strong desire to play at the Bernabeu means the situation is out of Barcelona’s hands, which is not ideal for Flick and sporting director Deco in their bid to sign a new midfielder.

Barcelona are likely to stick in the race until Real Madrid either sign Rodri or drop out, at which point they can make their next move. If they do manage to acquire his services, it would be a major statement of intent, and it would arguably give them the strongest midfield in world football.