Barcelona submit fresh Rodri bid as Manchester City hold firm on valuation
By Joel Masibo, August 12, 2026Barcelona have reportedly returned with an improved offer worth €60 million ( Ksh8.86 billion) in an attempt to sign Manchester City midfielder Rodri during the current transfer window.
The Spanish champions are now believed to have a clearer path in their pursuit after rivals Real Madrid dropped out of the race for the World Cup-winning midfielder. Rodri, whose contract at the Etihad Stadium is set to expire in less than 12 months, is said to be interested in a move to the Catalan club.
After seeing an earlier proposal turned down, Barcelona have reportedly gone back to City with a new package. However, transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano reports that the Premier League side are unwilling to sanction a deal under the current terms.
According to the latest reports, Barcelona submitted their revised offer on Tuesday evening, but Manchester City remain determined to secure a significantly higher fee for the 30-year-old.
Romano has suggested that an offer in the region of €70 million (Ksh10.35 billion) could be enough to push negotiations forward, although the structure of any performance-related bonuses is expected to play an important role before an agreement can be reached.
Despite the obstacles, Barcelona are said to remain “optimistic” that a transfer will eventually be completed.
City’s reluctance to sell Rodri cheaply may also be linked to the need to find a suitable successor. The midfielder has been one of the club’s most influential players in recent years, and replacing him would be a major priority should he depart.
Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernández has been repeatedly linked with a move to the Etihad Stadium, with reports claiming the London club have set conditions regarding any potential negotiations.
If Manchester City decide to intensify their interest in the Argentina international, securing a substantial transfer fee for Rodri could strengthen their position in the market and help fund a move for a replacement.
Rodri shows willingness to join Barca
Writing on X on Thursday, August 6, 2026, transfer expert and journalist Fabrizio Romano reported that Rodri has shown openness to Barcelona for the first time, with the Catalan club monitoring the situation carefully as Real Madrid remain involved in the race.
“BREAKING: Rodri has opened doors to Barcelona today, informing about his willingness to negotiate contract terms. Rodri opens to Barça for the very first time. Barça remain careful with Real Madrid involved until his final decision is communicated to Man City,” Romano wrote on X.