Manchester City has rejected an opening bid of £38.5 million (€45m) from Barcelona for midfielder Rodri. The Premier League club is holding out for at least £60 million before considering the departure of Spain's World Cup-winning captain.
Rodri, 30, is in the final year of his contract at City and has reportedly agreed personal terms with the Spanish champions. Barcelona has emerged as his preferred destination after talks with Real Madrid broke down earlier this week, with Rodri indicating a desire to return to his homeland following Pep Guardiola's departure from City.
The midfielder, who joined City from Atlético Madrid in 2019, has declined a contract extension. City is reportedly firm on their asking price, while Barcelona continues negotiations in hopes of reaching a compromise. Rodri, who won the World Cup's Golden Ball last month, discussed a potential move with Barcelona's manager Hansi Flick and sporting director Deco on Wednesday.
Barcelona is targeting Rodri as a replacement for Frenkie de Jong, who will miss several months due to a knee injury. Rodri himself has undergone minor back surgery and is expected to miss most of City's pre-season programme.
Meanwhile, City has signed Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest for £116 million and is in negotiations with Lille for Ayyoub Bouaddi, who could cost up to £80 million. City may also consider a more experienced replacement for Rodri, with Chelsea's Enzo Fernández reportedly under consideration.