Manchester City are concerned about the future of Rodri, amidst interest from Barcelona for a summer transfer.
According to a report by Football Insider, Manchester are fearful about Rodri pushing for a move to Barcelona in the summer. The Catalonian giants have been interested in the player for a while now. They are likely to push for his services in the summer of 2023.
The 26-year-old is untouchable at Manchester City, he is the man for Pep Guardiola in the center of the park. Rodri is a regular starter and one of the leaders on the team. He has featured in 31 matches for the Manchester-based club in the ongoing season. He even has 6 goal contributions despite playing in a holding role for the majority of his time on the pitch.
During his time at the club he has made over 180 appearances and of late has been one of the most important players on the team. But, there is a belief in the City camp that Rodri is keen to head back to his homeland, Spain at some stage in his career. And, amidst interest from the Spanish giants, a move in the summer is what they fear.
However, Manchester City will have total control over the negotiations because Rodri had recently extended his contract at the club. The 26-year-old signed a five-year contract extension last summer. His contract ends in June 2027 and as a result, whoever wants to sign him will have to pay a sizeable amount.
The Spanish international has won two Premier League titles and two League Cup trophies since joining the English club from Atletico Madrid back in 2019. In the summer of 2022, City signed Kalvin Phillips from Leeds United to compete with Rodri for the defensive midfield position. But, he hasn’t lived up to the billing and Guardiola has only started him once. As a result, if Rodri leaves in the summer it will leave a huge void in City’s midfield.
As far as Barcelona are concerned, they are looking for a defensive midfielder. They have identified Rodri as a top target alongside a few other players. Xavi is looking for a potential successor to Sergio Busquets who has been at the heart of Barca’s midfield for over a decade. The 26-year-old perfectly fits the bill as he has the qualities needed to succeed at Barcelona.
Rodri has been a long-time target for the Catalan club. And, they are likely to bid for him in the summer. But, it will be interesting to see what price will Manchester City ask for the services of the midfielder. And, more importantly, if they will be willing to let go of their star man with 4 years left on his contract.
