Barcelona has reportedly reached an agreement in principle to sign Rodri from Manchester City, marking the Spain captain's return to La Liga after an impressive seven seasons in England. The deal is said to be worth €76.5 million (approximately $88.4 million), following Barcelona's third offer for the 30-year-old midfielder. Rodri is expected to sign a four-year contract with the Catalan club, just weeks after leading Spain to victory in the 2026 World Cup and being named the tournament's best player.

Barcelona's Persistence Pays Off

Barcelona had two previous offers for Rodri rejected before making an improved bid over the weekend. According to reports from ESPN and The Athletic, the latest proposal includes an upfront payment of €60 million ($68.8 million) along with over €11 million in achievable bonuses. Manchester City anticipates receiving at least €71.5 million overall for Rodri, who has less than a year remaining on his contract. The midfielder is expected to travel to Barcelona soon and could be unveiled ahead of the Joan Gamper Trophy match against Al Ahly at Spotify Camp Nou on Wednesday.

Strategic Signing for the Future

Rodri's future had been uncertain this summer as he entered the final year of his contract with Manchester City, prompting the club to consider a sale if a suitable offer was made. Barcelona's interest intensified after Frenkie de Jong sustained a long-term injury, leading the club to actively seek midfield reinforcements. Although Rodri was not initially a primary target, his availability shifted Barcelona's focus, and sources indicate that he preferred a move to Barcelona over a transfer to Real Madrid.

Rodri's signing is seen as a significant addition to a Barcelona squad that has won consecutive La Liga titles. The club views him as a player who can enhance Hansi Flick's team in the coming seasons, adding another experienced leader to a summer recruitment drive that has already seen the arrivals of Anthony Gordon, Karim Adeyemi, and Jesse Bisiwu. João Cancelo is also expected to return to Barcelona as a free agent.