Barcelona reach agreement to sign Rodri from Manchester City

Barcelona have reached an agreement with Manchester City to sign Spanish World Cup winner Rodri, with an announcement expected in the coming days, a source at the Catalan club told AFP on Sunday.

The 30-year-old midfielder is reportedly set to move to Camp Nou for a fee of around €75 million, bringing an end to his hugely successful spell in Manchester.

“In the coming days there will be a statement and the transfer will become official,” the Barcelona source said.

Rodri had previously been linked with Real Madrid following Spain’s World Cup triumph in July, but Barcelona stepped up their pursuit of the former Atletico Madrid midfielder.

Since joining Manchester City in 2019, Rodri has established himself as one of the most influential midfielders in world football. He played a crucial role in the club’s success under Pep Guardiola and was rewarded with the 2024 Ballon d’Or.

However, the Spain international has struggled with injuries during the past two seasons. He returned to top form during Spain’s successful World Cup campaign, once again demonstrating his importance to the national team

Barcelona’s need for midfield reinforcements has increased following an injury to Frenkie de Jong, who is expected to be sidelined for several months.

Barcelona had two bids rejected for Rodri before finally reaching an agreement with Manchester City on Sunday. The midfielder is set to become the latest major addition to the Catalan club’s squad this summer, following Anthony Gordon, Karim Adeyemi and Jesse Bisiwu.

Rodri, who captains Spain, was a key figure during Manchester City’s golden era under Guardiola. He helped the club win the 2023 UEFA Champions League, four Premier League titles and a total of 12 major trophies during his time at the Etihad Stadium.

His arrival would give Barcelona another elite option in midfield and add significant experience to a squad competing on multiple fronts.

Barcelona are also expected to complete a deal for Joao Cancelo in the coming days after the Portuguese full-back spent last season on loan at the club from Al Hilal.

With Rodri’s move now agreed, Barcelona are preparing for an official announcement that could come shortly.