Barcelona have returned with a fresh offer for Manchester City midfielder Rodri, intensifying one of the biggest transfer battles of the summer.
The latest proposal is reportedly worth €70 million, following two previous bids that failed to convince City.
Barcelona are increasingly confident that their latest attempt could finally break the deadlock, although Manchester City have continued to demand a higher valuation.
Barça Refuse to Give Up
Barcelona's pursuit of Rodri has been persistent.
Their initial proposal was rejected before a second offer, reported at around €60m, was also turned down by City. The latest €70m package represents a significant increase and could be Barcelona's decisive attempt to get the deal over the line.
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Rodri is reportedly keen on returning to Spain and has made Barcelona his preferred destination, giving the Catalan club an important advantage in negotiations.
But City are under no obligation to accept.
Manchester City Want More
The major obstacle remains City's valuation.
Reports indicate that the Premier League club want considerably more than Barcelona's latest proposal, with figures around €80m being discussed. City also face an unusual situation because Rodri's contract expires in 2027.
[Diario AS +1]
That creates a difficult decision.
City could keep one of the world's best midfielders for another season, but risk losing him for nothing next summer if a contract extension is not agreed.
Alternatively, they can cash in now — but only if Barcelona meet their valuation.
Rodri's Preference Could Matter
The midfielder's reported desire to join Barcelona is another important factor.
Rodri spent several years away from Spain after leaving Atlético Madrid for Manchester City in 2019. A return to La Liga with Barcelona would represent a major homecoming.
Barcelona also see him as a perfect addition to their midfield because of his technical quality, experience and ability to control matches.
For Hansi Flick, adding a player of Rodri's calibre would significantly strengthen an already ambitious squad.
City Preparing for Life Without Him?
Manchester City have already begun preparing for the possibility that Rodri could leave.
The club have invested heavily in midfield this summer, while reports have also linked them with further reinforcements. Elliot Anderson and Ayyoub Bouaddi have been mentioned as part of City's wider plans to reshape the position.
[Diario AS]
That does not necessarily mean Rodri's departure is imminent.
But it shows that City are planning for multiple scenarios.
Manager Enzo Maresca has also refused to guarantee that Rodri will remain at the Etihad, saying the midfielder's future remains uncertain.
The Final Stretch?
Barcelona now appear to believe they have pushed the negotiations close to their limit.
A €70m offer would represent a substantial commitment for a player who could potentially become available as a free agent in 2027.
City, however, must decide whether the immediate financial return is enough to justify losing their midfield leader.
And with Rodri reportedly favouring Barcelona, the pressure on City could increase as the transfer window approaches its final stages.
Barcelona have made their move. Manchester City have a decision to make.
The next response from the Etihad could determine whether Rodri stays in Manchester — or finally returns to Spain.
Fan Debate
⚽ Goal: Should Barcelona pay City's asking price?
🔥 Fire: Is Rodri worth €80m?
😲 Shock: Could City really lose their Ballon d'Or-winning midfielder?
👍 Like: Would Rodri make Barcelona favourites for Europe?
💬 Comment: Should City sell now or keep Rodri for another season?
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