Rodri has emerged as a hot topic in Spain lately, with many expecting the Manchester City superstar to return to his homeland after a successful World Cup campaign, where he won the Golden Ball.
Rodri is already on the radar of both Barcelona and Real Madrid, with Los Blancos, in particular, keen on acquiring his services.
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Barcelona are interested as well and it appears Manchester City are deliberately delaying talks with Real Madrid, so that the Catalans can enter the bidding war.
Rodri not interested in Barcelona move
Rodri was one of the best players at the World Cup. (Photo by Lars Baron/Getty Images)
Despite Barcelona’s interest, however, it is unlikely the club will be able to snap up Rodri this summer.
According to DIario AS, Rodri is unfazed by interest from Barcelona. His only desire is to return to his home city of Madrid and join Real Madrid.
If he is to leave Man City, Real Madrid remain the favourite destination and Barcelona is not something on his mind right now.
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This is despite the fact that the Spaniard has shown excellent understanding with most of the Barcelona players in the Spain team, including Dani Olmo, Pau Cubarsi, Lamine Yamal and Pedri.
Not to mention, Rodri has a history with Real Madrid following the 2024 Ballon d’Or, where Vinicius Jr. was famously snubbed, leading to Madrid fans showing animosity towards Rodri.
Barcelona’s priorities are different
Rodri only wants to join Real Madrid. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
As far as Barcelona are concerned, Rodri is not among the club’s priorities either.
While Frenkie de Jong’s injury has prompted them to look for a new midfielder in the market, their current focus is to complete the deal to sign Joao Cancelo and bring in a replacement for Robert Lewandowski.
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Julian Alvarez remains the primary focus and given that Barcelona have already a hefty sum in the market, it is unlikely that they will be able to afford Rodri, who is valued at around €75 million.
Everything, therefore, suggests Rodri might join Real Madrid this summer, provided he leaves Manchester City and doesn’t renew his contract at the Etihad.
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