Why Barcelona Needs to Act Fast to Sign Rodri
Manchester City has reportedly raised the price for Rodri to $94.5 million (£70 million), pushing back against Barcelona's latest offer. The Catalan club managed to eliminate Real Madrid from the race early but convincing City has been tougher. Two bids have already been rejected, with the second coming close to the initial valuation of $81 million (£60 million).
Despite Rodri being 30 and having some injury concerns recently, City's demands increased, according to The Times. Losing such an important player during a time of change is difficult for coach Enzo Maresca. Still, if Rodri is to leave following Pep Guardiola, Bernardo Silva, and John Stones, he will help finance the midfield overhaul.
Investments and Financial Pressure
Barcelona plans to sign Enzo Fernández and Ayyoub Bouaddi for over $270 million combined, while Elliot Anderson already cost them $156.5 million. Even with these huge expenses, City's finances are stable compared to Barcelona’s fragile situation. Whether Barcelona can afford Rodri might be less about money and more about missing out on a rare chance.
Can Barcelona Afford Rodri?
Since Lionel Messi left in 2021 due to financial problems, Barcelona has struggled under La Liga’s strict financial rules. After legal challenges and clever financial moves, the club seems to be on a better path. La Liga chief Javier Tebas told Joan Laporta that Barcelona now have nothing to envy from other Spanish teams.
The Athletic suggests Barcelona can spend every euro they earn this summer under the 1:1 rule. Selling big earners like Robert Lewandowski and Marcus Rashford, plus the imminent sale of Ferran Torres to Paris Saint-Germain, could free up more funds for transfers.
Why Time Is Running Out for Barcelona
Joan Laporta faces tough choices as Barcelona prepares to leave Camp Nou again in June 2027 for costly roof renovations. Their temporary home at Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys has limited capacity, reducing matchday revenue. Renovation costs will drain resources starting next summer, likely ending the current financial flexibility. This urgency may push Barcelona to complete deals now rather than later.
Sporting reasons also press the club. Frenkie de Jong returned injured from the World Cup and will miss substantial time. Rodri would fill that gap perfectly, mentoring Marc Bernal, the long-term successor to Sergio Busquets.
Striker Options and Squad Planning
Barcelona must also think about their striker situation. Without Lewandowski and Torres, only 18-year-old Hamza Abdelkarim is a natural center forward on the roster. Anthony Gordon and Karim Adeyemi could play upfront, and coach Hansi Flick might consider Dani Olmo or Lamine Yamal as false nines if a deal for Julián Alvarez fails.
