Rodri's agent drops transfer bombshell as Man City star decides future

View 2 Images

Rodri's agent has announced that the Manchester City star wants to join Barcelona over arch rivals Real Madrid . Rodri , 30, agreed personal terms with Barca on Thursday in a sudden and dramatic twist.

The Spaniard had been in talks with Real for weeks after suggesting back in March that he was keen on a move to the Bernabeu . But Barcelona have hijacked the move after Rodri spoke to their manager, Hansi Flick , and sporting director Deco and was convinced to join the La Liga champions.

Although City haven't given up hope of tying Rodri down to a new contract after he entered the final year of his current deal, Etihad chiefs are well aware of his desire to return to Spain. In a late-night interview with Cadena SER , Rodri's agent, Pablo Barquero, revealed all.

"Out of respect for Madrid, as they have been class, Rodri informed them that his decision is to join Barca," Barquero told the Spanish radio station.

FOLLOW OUR MAN CITY FB PAGE! Follow our Manchester City Mirror Football Facebook page

Barcelona are in the market for a midfielder after Frenkie de Jong was ruled out for several months. Rodri is seen as a plug and play option, having gotten over his injury troubles and helped Spain win the World Cup last month.

The 30-year-old also picked up the Golden Ball at the tournament, playing an integral role for Luis de la Fuente's side. His departure from City would follow that of manager Pep Guardiola , defender John Stones and midfielder Bernardo Silva in a summer of change at the Etihad.

New boss Enzo Maresca remains desperate to keep him, though, and stated earlier this week: "It's very important (to have him). Any manager in the world wants Rodri because he's a top player; so it's important for me, the club and for everyone."

Should Manchester City sell Rodri? Have your say in the comments section .

View 2 Images

But Maresca's hopes could soon be dashed. Barcelona have room in their wage budget following the departure of Robert Lewandowski and appear to have enough funds to tempt City to the negotiating table, having bid around £100m for Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez in June.

Rodri has spent seven years with City, winning four Premier League titles, one Champions League and two FA Cups . The former ex-Villarreal man received the Ballon d'Or in 2024, having won that year's European Championship with Spain.