Barcelona Launch Late Bid To Snatch Rodri from Real Madrid

Barcelona have entered the race to sign Manchester City midfielder Rodri, setting up a potential transfer tussle with rivals Real Madrid, according to reports in Spain.

Spanish outlet AS claims the Spain international, who helped his country win the 2026 FIFA World Cup, had been expected to join Real Madrid this summer.

However, Barcelona have now expressed interest in the 30-year-old and are attempting to hijack Los Blancos’ pursuit of one of Europe’s most highly rated midfielders.

The report adds that the final decision will rest with Rodri, who must choose between Spain’s two biggest clubs should an agreement be reached with Manchester City.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano also confirmed Barcelona’s interest, revealing that the Catalan giants have already opened discussions with both the player’s representatives and Manchester City.

“Barcelona have made contact with Rodri’s camp and also with Manchester City about a possible move,” Romano wrote on X.

“Real Madrid have been in talks with City for weeks, but Manchester City did not agree to proceed immediately because they felt more clubs were joining the race.

“It’s up to the player.”

Rodri remains under contract at Manchester City and has been a pivotal figure in Pep Guardiola’s side since joining from Atlético Madrid in 2019.

With both Barcelona and Real Madrid now vying for his signature, the Spain international’s future is expected to be one of the biggest transfer stories of the summer.