Barcelona has reached a preliminary agreement with Manchester City for the transfer of midfielder Rodrigo Hernández, commonly known as Rodri. The deal is expected to be officially announced within the week, pending the completion of necessary documentation. Sources indicate that the club aims to present Rodri during the upcoming Joan Gamper Trophy on Wednesday.

Details of the Transfer

Rodri, who recently won the 2024 Ballon d'Or and was named the best player at the World Cup with the Spanish national team, is set to sign a four-year contract with the Catalan club. While Barcelona has not disclosed official figures, it is reported that the transfer fee includes a fixed amount of 60 million euros, with an additional 10 million euros in potential variables. The acceleration of the deal occurred over the weekend, following Barcelona's third offer, which was ultimately accepted by City.

Rodri's Current Situation

Despite the imminent transfer, Rodri is currently unable to play due to recent back surgery following the World Cup. He was absent from the Community Shield match in Cardiff, where Manchester City suffered a 0-3 defeat to Arsenal. City’s management had already approved the transfer prior to the match but chose to wait until after the final to inform Barcelona. Rodri is expected to travel to Barcelona soon for a medical examination as part of the signing process, which will extend his contract until 2030.

The signing process, while swift, has not been without challenges. Initially, Real Madrid had expressed interest in acquiring Rodri, but their lower offer did not meet Manchester City's expectations. Meanwhile, Rodri, eager for a change, reached out to Barcelona through his representative, prompting a focused negotiation that lasted a couple of weeks. With one year remaining on his contract at City, Rodri had already communicated his desire not to renew, making this summer the last opportunity for City to capitalize on his transfer.