Barcelona consider signing Rodri as replacement for injured Frenkie de Jong | OneFootball

This week, Barcelona were rocked by the news that Frenkie de Jong is set for an extended period on the sidelines. The Dutch midfielder was found to have suffered a tear to the medial collateral ligament – sustained during the 2026 World Cup – which is expected to keep him out of action for up to five months.

Losing de Jong for an extended period is a major blow for Barcelona, who will be left with Pedri, Gavi, Marc Bernal and Marc Casado as midfield options – the latter has been heavily linked with a summer exit, although that could no longer be on the table as a result of this situation. Understandably, these options will be something of a concern for Hansi Flick, which is why there have already been moves made towards bringing in a replacement.

According to RMC Sport, Barcelona have sounded out 2026 World Cup Golden Ball winner Rodri as a possible replacement for de Jong. The 30-year-old is likely to be available on a cut-price deal this summer due to his contract having less than 12 months remaining, and in that sense, it is not a surprise that the Catalans are interested.

Real Madrid favourites to sign Rodri

Rodri would represent a fantastic signing for Barcelona if he can be brought to the Spotify Camp Nou, although it is looking unlikely that he will be going there. Paris Saint-Germain have also moved towards an approach, although both clubs are currently trailing Real Madrid, who have already agreed personal terms with the 2024 Ballon d’Or winner.

In the coming days, it will be interesting to see just how serious Barcelona are about signing Rodri. It would be smart to reinforce their midfield on the back of de Jong’s injury, although their priority remains bringing in a new number nine to replace the already-departed Robert Lewandowski.