Manchester City are reportedly open to selling midfielder Rodri, but would demand more than £60m for the Spain captain. Barcelona appear to be leading the race to sign the 30-year-old, who is in the final year of his contract at the Etihad Stadium.
Sources told BBC Sport on Thursday that Barcelona had Rodri's approval to open negotiations with City. While initial reports from Barca sources indicated no guarantees, the situation now appears to be developing, with the club stating on Friday they are in ongoing conversations with the player's representatives.
Real Madrid had previously been considered Rodri's likely destination, but talks with the club have now ended. According to Spanish radio network Cadena Ser, Real Madrid made an "irresistible" offer, but Rodri made a personal decision to accept another offer, informing Real Madrid on Friday.
Rodri missed parts of the 2024-25 and last season due to knee and hamstring issues, but was named player of the tournament after leading Spain to their second World Cup title this summer. He is currently recovering from back surgery last month and is scheduled to rejoin his City teammates early next week.
City are aiming to resolve Rodri's future swiftly to sign a replacement. Talks are ongoing for 18-year-old Morocco midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi from Lille, though the French club's £86m asking price is reportedly a sticking point.