Barcelona are reportedly trying to muscle into the race for Rodri, despite Real Madrid already being heavily linked with the Manchester City midfielder.
The Spaniard’s contract at Man City expires next summer, so there is a decision to be made. Rodri moving to Barcelona would be a major statement, particularly with the added story of picking the Blaugrana over Real Madrid.
How does Rodri compare to Frenkie de Jong?
Frenkie de Jong carried Barcelona’s deepest midfield workload last season, averaging 82.9 attempted passes per 90 minutes. They included 20.1 forward passes per 90, with 94.2% passing accuracy. Rodri, meanwhile, attempted 96.2 passes per 90 in the Premier League, with 23.9 forward passes.
The difference is what sits around the passing. Rodri was stronger in reclaiming possession, winning 7.02 duels per 90 and making 6.36 ball recoveries. De Jong, on the other hand, won 4.69 duels per 90 with 4.75 ball recoveries. Rodri also made 2.44 clearances in the Premier League to De Jong’s 0.83 per 90 in La Liga. Of course, the difference in league and style will play a part, but the shape is clear. De Jong helps Barcelona play through pressure. Rodri would help them play through it and kill the counter-attack afterwards.
What would Rodri add to Barcelona?
Rodri would give Hansi Flick the one thing Barcelona have never quite replaced since Sergio Busquets: a single-pivot controller who can defend space. Marc Bernal and Marc Casado offer in-house No.6 options, while De Jong gives progression. Rodri gives authority.
That matters because Barcelona conceded 36 La Liga goals in last season. Their football squeezes teams high, but the back door can creak when the press is beaten. Rodri’s value is not just his 90.1% pass accuracy. It is the timing of the foul, the body shape before the regain, and the safe pass that stops chaos.
Rodri to Barcelona odds
Barcelona have shortened to 1/2 favourites with bet365 to be Rodri’s club after the summer transfer window. Real Madrid are still 7/4, while he is 7/1 to stay at Man City.
Rodri to Barcelona FAQs
Barcelona are reportedly interested in Rodri, but Real Madrid have also been strongly linked and there is no agreement with Man City.
Reports around Real Madrid’s interest have suggested a possible package beyond £43m, with Rodri’s 2027 contract situation likely to shape any fee.
Rodri’s current Man City contract expires in June 2027, and the club are reportedly hopeful he will sign fresh terms.
What happens next?
Barcelona need to turn interest into something Man City have to consider, while Madrid remain the awkward elephant in the Clasico-shaped room. The football fit is clear; Barcelona’s finances are the obvious complication.