Barcelona have reportedly reached an agreement with Manchester City to sign Spain captain Rodri for a fee worth £65 million, with the midfielder set to move to Camp Nou on a four-year contract.
The 30-year-old, who won the Ballon d’Or in 2024, is expected to complete his transfer to the Spanish champions in the coming days after Barcelona beat off competition from Real Madrid for his signature.
Rodri emerged as a key target for Barcelona following Frenkie de Jong’s injury, with the Dutch midfielder expected to spend several months on the sidelines.
The Spanish international has been one of Manchester City’s most influential players since joining the club from Atletico Madrid in 2019 for a then club-record £62.8 million.
Rodri leaves City after trophy-laden spell
Rodri made 298 appearances for City during seven seasons at the Etihad Stadium, helping Pep Guardiola’s side win 12 major trophies.
His honours include four Premier League titles, two FA Cups, three EFL Cups and the Champions League, which City won in the 2022/23 season.
The midfielder’s time in Manchester was disrupted by injuries during the past two seasons. He missed much of the 2024/25 campaign after suffering a serious knee injury before later dealing with a hamstring problem.
However, Rodri returned to his best form at the World Cup, where he captained Spain to their second title and was named the tournament’s best player.
Barcelona strengthen midfield
Barcelona had reportedly seen two bids for Rodri rejected before reaching an agreement with City on Sunday.
The midfielder is expected to become one of several major additions at Camp Nou this summer as Barcelona look to strengthen their squad for the new campaign.
The Catalan club are also expected to complete a deal for Joao Cancelo after his loan spell at Barcelona last season from Al Hilal.
Rodri’s arrival would mark the latest chapter in a decorated career that has seen him establish himself as one of the world’s leading defensive midfielders and a central figure in Spain’s success.
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