Rodri transfer twists as Real Madrid talks stall and Barcelona re-enter race

Negotiations between Real Madrid and Manchester City midfielder Rodri have taken an unexpected turn, with the proposed move now under threat after disagreement over the terms of a potential contract. Barcelona have also revived their interest and are attempting to challenge Real Madrid for the Spain international’s signature.

Reports on Wednesday had suggested Barcelona had withdrawn from the contest, leaving Real Madrid as the leading candidates to sign Rodri, who was regarded as the favourite to be named the best player at the 2026 World Cup.

However, according to transfer-market outlet Foot Mercato, citing Spanish newspaper Sport, Rodri has reservations about the offer made by Real Madrid. Although he had initially agreed in principle to a four-year contract, the player has not accepted the financial terms currently on the table.

The negotiations have become increasingly tense, with the deal no longer considered certain to go through. Rodri is understood to be seeking improved financial conditions. He remains keen on returning to the Spanish league, but does not want to do so at any price.

Real Madrid turned their attention to Rodri after moving close to completing the signing of Ivorian defender Yan Diomande. The Spanish club are preparing to bring Diomande into their squad after concluding one of the summer window’s most complicated transfers.

Reports in Spain have said Real Madrid president Florentino Perez was initially reluctant to pursue a deal for Rodri because of the midfielder’s relative age and his history of injuries. The club’s position changed after the player’s performances, particularly following his award as the best player at the most recent World Cup, prompted officials to reassess his value.

Barcelona revive their interest

Barcelona have now returned to a deal that had previously been under consideration inside the Catalan club, even before the World Cup. Reports say they have entered the race with renewed determination after deciding to re-open discussions over the Manchester City player.

Journalist Ben Jacobs has reported that Barcelona have already begun talks regarding Rodri and are preparing to make a formal offer, despite Manchester City’s desire to keep the midfielder.

Jacobs said Real Madrid had been viewed as the strongest candidates to complete the transfer, but Barcelona would also be an attractive destination for Rodri. The player is understood to favour a return to Spain for sporting and family reasons.

Manchester City, meanwhile, are not expected to allow their star player to leave without a substantial fee. Reports indicate that the English club want between 75m and 80m euros before agreeing to a sale.

Real Madrid are reportedly unwilling to go beyond a budget of between 50m and 60m euros. The significant difference between the two clubs’ valuations, combined with Rodri’s reservations about the proposed contract, has added further uncertainty to a transfer that had appeared to be moving in Real Madrid’s favour.

The latest developments leave Rodri’s future caught between the two Spanish giants, while Manchester City continue to hold a strong negotiating position as they seek to retain their key midfielder.