Rodrigo Hernández, “Rodri”, 30, has moved one step closer to joining FC Barcelona. The Manchester City midfielder has told the Catalan club that he is convinced by Hansi Flick’s sporting project and has given Barcelona the green light to begin talks with the English club over a possible transfer.
There is still no final agreement with the Spain international, and several details must still be settled with both the player and Manchester City. However, Barcelona believe they have overcome the biggest problem that had stopped the deal from moving forward: understanding Rodri’s real preference. Until only a few days ago, Barça believed the midfielder would choose Real Madrid if he returned to Spain. The situation has now completely changed, with the Spain star reportedly choosing Barcelona.
Rodri’s change of position has opened the door to a deal that Deco has been quietly working on. Barcelona see the situation as a major market opportunity. Although strengthening the attack remains the club’s main priority this summer, the chance to sign one of the world’s best defensive midfielders is too important to ignore. Rodri’s quality, experience and leadership make him an excellent fit for Hansi Flick’s project. However, this move is not connected to De Jong’s possible surgery. The Dutch midfielder must first follow a two-month treatment plan before any decision is made.
Barcelona’s next challenge will be convincing Manchester City, who still consider Rodri one of their most important players. Real Madrid had reportedly been working with a possible transfer fee of around €60 million. That would still be a high price for Barcelona, but Rodri’s approval gives the Catalan club the chance to explore different ways to make the transfer financially possible.
According to Mundo Deportivo, Rodri would also like his future to be decided before he returns to Manchester City on August 13. Barcelona and the recently crowned world champion have already started working towards reaching an agreement before that date, if possible.
Meanwhile, Jijantes FC has gone further, claiming that there is already a full agreement and that the Madrid-born midfielder will definitely become a Barcelona player. However, after speaking with several club sources, Mundo Deportivo cannot confirm this with complete certainty. What is clear is that Barcelona believe the most important step has already been taken. Rodri is attracted by the club’s sporting project and has given Barça permission to negotiate directly with Manchester City over a transfer that seemed much less likely only a few days ago.
