Barcelona continue to push for Rodri, but Manchester City are maintaining a firm position over the midfielder’s transfer fee.
According to Sky Sports (h/t Mundo Deportivo), the English club wants at least £60 million (€70 million) in fixed payments, plus variables.
Barcelona have now reached £55 million (€64 million) fixed, meaning the two clubs are currently separated by just £5 million.
The Catalan giants have a major advantage in the negotiations: Rodri has already committed to joining Hansi Flick’s project for the next four seasons.
Moreover, he has only one year remaining on his City contract, meaning the Premier League giants run the risk of losing him for free next year.
Barça refuse to overpay
The current difference between the two clubs is relatively small, but Barcelona do not want to stretch beyond what they consider reasonable for a player who can leave for free next summer.
Waiting for the green light. (Photo by Annabel Lee-Ellis/Getty Images)
The La Liga champions remain optimistic because of Rodri’s commitment to joining Barça and his willingness to help facilitate the transfer.
However, the huge expectations surrounding his potential arrival, particularly after the Blaugrana overtook Real Madrid in the race for his signature, have increased the pressure to complete the deal this summer.
The variables could ultimately prove decisive, although details of the potential bonuses have not yet emerged.
Rodri due back at City tomorrow
Another factor adding urgency is Rodri’s return to Manchester. He is expected to report for duty with the Cityzens on Friday following his post-World Cup holiday.
His new coach, Enzo Maresca, has already made clear that he expects the midfielder back with the squad.
Barcelona remain confident. (Photo by Molly Darlington/Getty Images)
To avoid travelling to Manchester, the agreement would need to be completed between Thursday and Friday, or Rodri could request permission to delay his return, as Ferran Torres did with Barcelona.
Man City also need to make a move
Manchester City are under pressure of their own because they are simultaneously trying to sign Enzo Fernandez from Chelsea.
The Blues have given City until Friday lunchtime to meet their demands, with the London club asking for £120 million (€140 million) for the Argentine midfielder.
That situation could add another layer to the Rodri negotiations, with Barcelona expected to press now that Ferran’s exit to PSG has been agreed.
For now, the difference is £5 million. The final stages of the negotiation could come down to how that gap is structured between fixed payments and variables.