Barcelona have made a third offer for Rodri as their pursuit of the Manchester City midfielder enters a decisive stage.
The Catalan club’s latest proposal is worth more than $76 million, with Barcelona believing it could finally convince City to let the Spain international leave.
Rodri has emerged as one of Barcelona’s major targets as the club look to strengthen their midfield. City initially wanted around €92.5 million, but the gap between the two sides has now narrowed.
Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty ImagesBarcelona believe Rodri deal is closer than everAccording to Spanish newspaper AS, Barcelona have increased their opening proposal of $57 million by around 25% before making a third offer that exceeds $76 million.
The latest bid is regarded by the Catalan club as their final proposal. Those close to Barcelona have also been trying to calm the mood around the negotiations, with confidence growing that an agreement can be reached.
However, patience is still required.
Barcelona had expected the deal to be difficult, particularly with Manchester City initially setting a much higher asking price. The club have nevertheless continued pushing as they look to bring Rodri back to Spain.
The midfielder is also reportedly being offered a four-year contract by the La Liga champions.
Barcelona are counting on Rodri’s desire for a fresh challenge as they attempt to complete the move. That could prove important if City remain reluctant to accept the latest offer.
Rodri’s actions have also added to the speculation.
He travelled to Manchester last Thursday evening before arriving at City’s training ground on Friday morning, exactly as scheduled.
That does not suggest the midfielder has forced his way out of the club, but Barcelona remain optimistic that his future could soon take a different direction.
Photo by Yu Chun Christopher Wong/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty ImagesMeanwhile, City’s new manager Enzo Maresca has refused to guarantee that Rodri will stay at the Etihad Stadium.
‘I embraced him warmly,’ Maresca said when discussing his meeting with the Spain star.
For now, Manchester City still have a decision to make. Barcelona have raised their offer significantly, and the club believe the latest proposal could finally be enough to move the negotiations forward.
With Rodri’s future now firmly in focus, the next response from City could determine whether Barcelona’s confidence is justified.
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