Barcelona’s second offer for Rodri rejected as Manchester City remain firm on €70 million valuation

Barcelona’s pursuit of Rodri has hit another obstacle, with Manchester City rejecting the club’s second offer for the Spanish midfielder.

According to The Times, Barça returned with an improved proposal worth around €60 million, but it was still not enough to convince the Premier League side to open the door for a sale.

City are understood to be holding out for a package worth €70 million plus add-ons, leaving Barcelona with a fresh decision to make in their pursuit of one of their leading transfer targets.

The latest development keeps the Rodri to Barcelona transfer alive, but there remains a gap between what Barça are currently willing to pay and what Manchester City expect.

Barcelona’s €60m Rodri bid falls short

Barcelona have now made two attempts to sign Rodri, with neither offer meeting Manchester City’s demands.

The first approach was worth around €45-50 million, before Barça returned with an improved package of approximately €60 million.

City have rejected Barcelona’s second bid for Rodri. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

The second bid represented a clear effort from the Catalan club to move negotiations forward, but City have once again stood their ground.

According to the latest reports, though, Manchester City value the midfielder at around €70 million plus add-ons.

That position is particularly interesting given Rodri is entering the final year of his contract, meaning he could leave for free next summer if no agreement over a new deal or transfer is reached.

However, City are not treating his contract situation as grounds for accepting a discounted fee.

Rodri remains one of the most important players in the squad, and the club appears determined to secure a fee they believe reflects his standing and experience.

Rodri wants Barcelona but City refuse to compromise

City are firm on their €70 million valuation of Rodri. (Photo by Annabel Lee-Ellis/Getty Images)

The player’s position could become an important part of the story, as Rodri is keen on a move to Barcelona and has his sights set on playing at Spotify Camp Nou.

That gives Barça encouragement, especially as the midfielder is already in the final 12 months of his current Manchester City contract.

Barcelona’s interest is therefore not expected to disappear after the latest rejection.

Rather, the club has already shown their commitment by increasing their initial offer, while Rodri’s desire for the move could put further pressure on the situation if negotiations continue.

Manchester City, though, are in no rush to surrender their position. Reports have also linked the club with possible midfield reinforcements, suggesting they are preparing for different scenarios while still attempting to protect their interests in any potential Rodri transfer.