Gap Narrows But Valuations Still Clash

Barcelona have submitted a new verbal proposal worth €60 million plus add-ons to Manchester City for Rodri, hoping to finally push forward negotiations that have dragged on for weeks. City, however, continue insisting on an €80 million valuation before sanctioning any sale.

This latest offer represents genuine progress. Barcelona's opening bid of €45 million was swiftly rejected, with City informing the Catalans that a serious offer needed to start much closer to their own figure. Consequently, Barcelona regrouped and returned with an improved package, believing it now bridges much of the gap between both valuations.

Still, City haven't budged from their position. Sources suggest the Premier League champions value Rodri at more than €70 million, with some reports pointing toward figures closer to €80 million given his Ballon d'Or pedigree. Notably, City remain reluctant to sanction what they consider a discounted deal, even amid growing awareness that Rodri wants to leave.

Interestingly, City's stance isn't rooted purely in stubbornness. Rodri's recent injury history, his advancing age at 30 and his contract situation, entering the final year at the Etihad, all factor into how they're approaching negotiations. Losing him for a cut-price fee would sting considerably given his influence during their most dominant seasons.

Middle Ground Could Break The Deadlock

A compromise, though, appears increasingly plausible. Splitting the difference between Barcelona's €60 million offer and City's €80 million demand would land somewhere around €70 million, a figure that add-ons could realistically help both sides reach without either feeling shortchanged.

Barcelona remain genuinely confident throughout. Rodri has reportedly made clear his preference lies with Camp Nou over any alternative, including previous interest from Real Madrid. That clarity from the player himself continues fuelling optimism within Barcelona's boardroom that a breakthrough remains close.

City manager Enzo Maresca, meanwhile, has confirmed Rodri is scheduled to return to training this week regardless of the ongoing speculation, according to ESPN, suggesting no immediate resolution is guaranteed just yet.