Overview
- Manchester City rejected a €45 million bid from Barcelona this week and have publicly held out for a much higher valuation while negotiations reportedly move toward a package near €55m plus add‑ons.
- Head coach Enzo Maresca said Rodri is due to report back to Manchester on August 14 and will remain with the first‑team squad until any transfer is completed.
- Rodri is recovering from recent back surgery and is unlikely to play in the Community Shield on August 16 even if he rejoins the squad two days before the match.
- City are preparing contingency plans that name Chelsea’s Enzo Fernández as a top target, with reports saying Fernandez is open to a reunion with Maresca but Chelsea would demand a fee reported around £116m–£120m.
- Rodri’s contract running into its final year and his World Cup form have intensified interest and put time pressure on all parties, creating a narrow window for clubs to settle the fee before the season starts.