Manchester City has turned down an initial transfer bid of £38.5 million ($52 million) from Barcelona for their World Cup-winning midfielder, Rodri. This rejection indicates City’s intent to retain the player, who has been a key figure in their squad. The ongoing interest from Barcelona highlights the Catalan club’s desire to strengthen their midfield ahead of the upcoming season.
Contract Situation and Transfer Speculation
The 30-year-old player has only one season left on his contract with Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium. He has been the subject of intense speculation regarding a potential return to Spain, his home country.
Player and Team Performance
City are understood to want about £68 million for Rodri, who was named player of the tournament at the recent World Cup in North America. The Spanish powerhouse said on Thursday (August 6, 2026) that the 19-year-old forward will be linked to the club for the next seven seasons. Real Madrid had appeared likely to be Rodri’s next club, but La Liga rivals Barcelona now seem to be in pole position. Real Madrid has reached a deal with Leipzig for the transfer of young Ivory Coast international Yan Diomande.
He said the club was proud that Diomande’s performances “garnered significant international attention.”
