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Manchester City and Barcelona have finalized terms to transfer Spanish midfielder Rodri in a deal valued at 76.5 million euros ($88.5 million), according to a person familiar with the arrangement who spoke to The Associated Press on Sunday. The transfer represents a significant move in the European soccer market, though both clubs have yet to make formal announcements about the agreement.
The 30-year-old Rodri has been a cornerstone of Manchester City’s midfield since arriving from Atletico Madrid in 2019. His prominence on the international stage was cemented by scoring the decisive goal in City’s 2023 Champions League final victory over Inter Milan and subsequently winning the Ballon d’Or in 2024 following Spain’s success at the European Championship.
Rodri captained Spain to World Cup victory last month and received the Golden Ball as the tournament’s outstanding performer. His contract with City contained one remaining year at the time of the agreement.
The departure marks another blow to City’s midfield depth, following Bernardo Silva’s summer move to Real Madrid. Rodri was absent from Sunday’s 3-0 Community Shield loss to Arsenal as he continues recovery from minor back surgery performed after the World Cup.
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