Barcelona Close to Signing Rodri; Enzo Maresca Shares Latest on Man City Midfielder

Barcelona are reportedly nearing an agreement to sign midfielder Rodri before he returns to Manchester City training this week. The Spanish World Cup winner’s future at City looks uncertain as Barcelona push ahead in the transfer race.

After overtaking Real Madrid in pursuit of Rodri, Barcelona initially had a $52 million (£38.5 million) bid rejected by City, who want closer to $81 million (£60 million). Mundo Deportivo reports that Barcelona have not yet matched that asking price but have made an improved offer starting at $63.5 million (£47 million) plus add-ons. This has brought both clubs to the final stage of negotiations to work out the details.

The difference in valuation might be balanced by including a player from Barcelona’s squad as part of the deal. Some rumors suggest Manchester City have shown interest in 19-year-old midfielder Tommy Marqués from Barcelona.

Barcelona’s coach, Hansi Flick, wants the deal finalized quickly so he can plan his squad ahead of the new season.

Enzo Maresca Confirms Rodri's Return Date to Manchester City

Enzo Maresca expects Rodri to rejoin Manchester City soon. Since winning the World Cup with Spain this summer, Rodri has been delayed in returning to preseason training. He missed all of Maresca’s initial preseason sessions, which ended this past weekend before the upcoming Community Shield match against Arsenal on Sunday, August 16.

Maresca said, “At the moment, he will be in Manchester. There is no update. On August 14 he will be back.”

Both clubs would benefit if an agreement comes swiftly. Barcelona want more time with Rodri before the season begins, while City need to prepare for life without their key midfielder.

Midfield Changes and Future Plans at Manchester City

Elliot Anderson joined City from Nottingham Forest but, like Rodri, has not played in preseason due to his England commitments. Consequently, players like Mateo Kovačić, Tijjani Reijnders, and Nico González have filled midfield minutes during preseason games.

City are expected to bring in a significant replacement for Rodri. Reports suggest a possible reunion between Enzo Maresca and Chelsea’s Enzo Fernández, who is only just returning to training after facing Rodri’s Spain in the World Cup final. Fernández will also require time to prepare for the upcoming season with his new team.