Manchester City rejects Barcelona’s second bid for Rodri

Manchester City has rejected a second bid from Barcelona for midfielder Rodri, according to the British newspaper The Times, creating a new obstacle to the player's potential move to the Catalan club during the current summer transfer window.

The report stated that Barcelona’s latest offer exceeded €65 million including bonuses, but Manchester City remains firm in seeking more than €80 million to part with the 30-year-old player.

Rodri, for his part, has made a return to La Liga his top priority this summer, preferring a move to Barcelona despite interest from Real Madrid. The deal now depends on ongoing negotiations between the two clubs, with City standing firm on its financial demands.

Meanwhile, reports indicate that Manchester City is under pressure due to Premier League financial restrictions and is unwilling to sell Rodri below his market value, especially as the club looks to rebuild its midfield.

Manchester City’s search for Rodri’s replacement

Manchester City is already exploring alternatives, holding talks with French club Lille over Ayyoub Bouaddi, whose potential transfer is valued at around €100 million. The English club is also closely monitoring Chelsea’s Enzo Fernandez, whose transfer fee could reach €140 million.

Rodri is expected to return to Manchester City training on Friday after winning the 2026 World Cup with Spain, while negotiations with Barcelona continue despite the English club’s strict financial stance.