Barcelona could be preparing one of the biggest moves of the summer, with reports suggesting the Barcelona Rodri transfer is gathering momentum as Manchester City anticipate an approach before the transfer window closes.

The Spanish giants are reportedly monitoring the situation closely, with Rodri emerging as one of their priority midfield targets despite strong interest from Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain.

Manchester City are said to be expecting Barcelona to make an official move, prompting the Premier League giants to temporarily pause negotiations with Real Madrid over the Spanish midfielder’s future.

Real Madrid Talks Stall as Barcelona Enter the Race

According to reports from Spain, Real Madrid began discussions for Rodri around ten days ago after club president Florentino Perez approved the pursuit. However, the negotiations have yet to produce an agreement.

That delay has opened the door for the Barcelona Rodri transfer to become a serious possibility. City officials reportedly believe the LaLiga champions are preparing their own bid for the World Cup-winning midfielder.

One of the factors influencing the situation is Rodri’s reported uncertainty over a move to Real Madrid. The Spain international is believed to feel he could continue his development more effectively at Barcelona rather than under Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho.

Manchester City are understood to value Rodri at around £56 million, but Real Madrid are reportedly unwilling to exceed £43 million, leaving a significant gap between the two clubs.

Financial Hurdles Could Decide Rodri’s Future

Barcelona, meanwhile, face their own financial challenge. While club officials are interested in completing the Barcelona Rodri transfer, the transfer fee and Rodri’s salary remain major obstacles.

The Catalan club are reportedly assessing whether they can structure a deal that complies with LaLiga’s financial regulations and salary cap before making a final decision.

Paris Saint-Germain also remain interested in the midfielder, adding another contender to what is becoming one of the most closely watched transfer races of the summer.

Rodri enters the new campaign on the back of another remarkable year. The 30-year-old recently celebrated World Cup success with Spain and remains one of Europe’s most accomplished defensive midfielders.

Although injuries to his hamstring and groin limited his availability last season, Rodri still featured in 33 matches for Manchester City, underlining his importance whenever fit.

With Manchester City now waiting to see whether Barcelona formalise their interest, the Barcelona Rodri transfer could become one of the defining stories of the final weeks of the transfer window. Whether the Catalan club can overcome the financial hurdles may ultimately decide where the World Cup winner plays his football next season.