Rodri Set to Leave Manchester City for Barcelona as Catalan Giants Close In on £65.4m Blockbuster Deal

Barcelona is closing in on one of the biggest transfers of the summer after Manchester City accepted a £65.4 million bid for Spain midfielder Rodrigo Hernández Cascante, with the 30-year-old reportedly agreeing a four-year contract with the Spanish champions. The move would bring the 2024 Ballon d’Or winner back to Spain after seven hugely successful seasons in Manchester.

Rodri’s transfer has been one of the major stories of the summer, with Barcelona determined to strengthen their midfield with a player whose qualities fit naturally into their footballing identity. Reports indicate that previous offers were rejected before City agreed to the latest proposal, with the final package reported at around €76.5 million.

The move represents a significant return to Spain for Rodri, who previously played for Villarreal and Atlético Madrid before joining Manchester City in 2019. At City, he developed into one of the world’s most influential defensive midfielders and became a central figure in Pep Guardiola’s team.

During his seven years at the Etihad, Rodri made 298 appearances and won 12 major trophies, including four Premier League titles, two FA Cups, three League Cups and the Champions League. He also scored the winning goal in City’s 2023 Champions League final victory over Inter Milan.

His individual achievements have been equally impressive. Rodri became the first Manchester City player to win the Ballon d’Or when he claimed the award in 2024, recognising his outstanding performances at club and international level. His influence extends to the Spain national team, where he has established himself as one of the country’s most important players.

For Barcelona, the signing is about more than simply adding another experienced midfielder. Rodri’s ability to control possession, protect the defence and dictate the rhythm of matches makes him particularly suited to the style traditionally associated with the Catalan club.

The timing is also notable because Rodri is entering the final year of his Manchester City contract. City had hoped to extend his stay, but reports indicate the club ultimately decided to accept Barcelona’s offer rather than risk losing a player whose contract situation had become increasingly complicated.

Manchester City now face the difficult task of replacing one of the most important players of the Guardiola era. The club have already invested heavily in midfield, including the British-record signing of Elliot Anderson, while continuing to explore further options.

For Barcelona, meanwhile, Rodri’s arrival could represent a major statement of ambition. The club are adding a proven Champions League winner, Ballon d’Or holder and Spain captain to an already talented squad.

The deal is not yet the same as a fully completed transfer, with formalities still expected to be concluded. But with City accepting the offer and Rodri agreeing personal terms, the midfielder appears increasingly close to making his return to Spanish football, this time in Barcelona colours.