Manchester City‘s preparations for the new Premier League season have been overshadowed by growing uncertainty surrounding Rodri’s future.
The Spain international has entered the final year of his contract at the Etihad Stadium.
So, it is prompting speculation over whether the club can convince one of their most influential players to remain beyond next summer.
The 30-year-old enjoyed another outstanding campaign despite injury setbacks earlier in his recovery.
Rodri returned to anchor City’s midfield before captaining Spain to World Cup glory. He was also named the tournament’s Golden Ball winner after a series of commanding displays.
His performances have only strengthened interest from Europe’s biggest clubs.
According to the Daily Mail, Barcelona have seen a bid worth nearly £40 million rejected by Manchester City after opening talks to sign Rodri.
The report claims the Catalan club have already agreed personal terms with the midfielder. Rodri has decided he prefers a move to Barcelona despite previously holding discussions with Real Madrid.
Manchester City are standing firm over their valuation and will reportedly demand more than £60 million before considering a sale.
The club have a history of allowing players to leave at the right asking price. But they have no intention of accepting what they view as an undervalued opening offer.
Rodri will rejoin Enzo Maresca’s squad next week after recovering from back surgery following Spain’s World Cup triumph.
City also continue to keep a contract offer on the table, although his current deal expires next summer.
Should Rodri eventually depart, the report adds that City are ready to move for an experienced replacement. Enzo Fernandez is one name City could go after as Rodri’s replacement.
Meanwhile, they are also pursuing Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi in a separate deal worth more than £80 million.
For now, however, Barcelona face returning with an improved offer if they are to prise the influential midfielder away from the Etihad.
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