Barcelona rule out move for Real Madrid priority target despite transfer speculation | OneFootball

According to MARCA, FC Barcelona have no intention of signing Rodri this summer, despite growing speculation linking the Manchester City midfielder with both the Blaugrana and Real Madrid.

From the start of the transfer window, sporting director Deco and head coach Hansi Flick have shared the same view: the squad already has enough quality and depth in midfield.

In fact, the Catalans believe that there are more midfielders than necessary, which is why Marc Casado has been advised to seek regular playing time elsewhere ahead of the new season.

De Jong injury does not change plans

Frenkie de Jong’s recent injury has naturally prompted questions about whether Barcelona might look for reinforcements in midfield.

While speculation has intensified outside the club, internally there has been little change in thinking.

Barcelona will not move for Rodri. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

Club officials remain confident in the current squad and do not see De Jong’s absence as a reason to make a major investment in the transfer market.

Rodri’s name has emerged largely because of his outstanding performances for Spain, but Barcelona are not actively pursuing the midfielder.

Rodri expected to join Real Madrid

Beyond their satisfaction with the current squad, Barcelona also see two major obstacles to any potential deal.

The first is financial. Rodri is expected to cost around €70 million, a figure the Blaugrana are unwilling to spend on a midfielder while other positions remain higher priorities.

The second is the widespread expectation that, if the Spanish international leaves Manchester City, Real Madrid will be his preferred destination.

For those reasons, Barça have no interest in entering a bidding war.

Other positions take priority

The club’s transfer strategy remains focused elsewhere. Strengthening the attack continues to be Barcelona’s primary objective, while defensive reinforcements are also considered more important than adding another central midfielder.

Flick and Deco have other priorities. (Photo courtesy: FC Barcelona official website)

Signing an expensive replacement simply to cover De Jong’s temporary absence has never been viewed as a realistic option.

After all, Flick currently has several players capable of occupying the three midfield positions, including Pedri, Marc Bernal, Gavi, Fermin Lopez and Dani Olmo.

In addition, both Eric García and Andreas Christensen can operate in midfield if required, giving the coaching staff further flexibility.

Then there is the talent coming through La Masia, with the likes of Tommy Marques, Brian Farinas, and Orian Goren pushing.

As such, Barcelona’s position remains clear. They do not expect to sign Rodri or any other midfielder before the transfer window closes.

Only a significant change in circumstances, such as De Jong suffering a longer-term setback or another key midfielder picking up a serious injury, would force the sporting department to reconsider.