17 Aug 2026 (Navroze Bureau) : Spain midfielder Rodri is set to leave Manchester City for Barcelona after the two clubs reached an agreement on a transfer worth around €76.5 million, according to reports.
Barcelona Agree Deal With Manchester City
The reported package includes around €60 million in guaranteed payments, with additional performance-related bonuses taking the potential total to about €76.5 million.
Rodri is expected to sign a four-year contract running until 2030.
Rodri Chooses Barcelona Over Real Madrid
The 30-year-old midfielder had attracted interest from Real Madrid, but reports say he preferred a return to Barcelona and has chosen the Catalan club.
Major Boost for Hansi Flick
Rodri’s arrival would give Barcelona one of the world’s leading defensive midfielders, adding experience, control and physical presence to Hansi Flick’s midfield.
His ability to dictate tempo could also complement players such as Pedri and other young midfielders in Barcelona’s squad.
A Huge Loss for Manchester City
Rodri spent seven successful years at Manchester City, winning four Premier League titles and scoring the winning goal in the 2023 Champions League final. He also won the 2024 Ballon d’Or.
City have already been rebuilding their midfield, including the signing of Elliot Anderson, as they prepare for life without their influential midfielder.
Return to Spain
Rodri’s move represents a return to Spanish football after his successful spells with Villarreal and Atlético Madrid before joining Manchester City in 2019.
The transfer also comes after a period disrupted by injuries, with Rodri recently recovering from back surgery.