Financial Gap Complicates Rodri's Move to Barcelona

Barcelona continues its negotiations with Manchester City aimed at reaching an agreement for the transfer of Spanish midfielder Rodri to the Catalan club, after the player made it clear last week that he wishes to wear the Barcelona jersey next season, rejecting offers from Real Madrid and Manchester City to renew his contract.

Despite a level of understanding between the two clubs, negotiations are still far from being finalized at this time, contrary to some reports that suggested a preliminary agreement between the parties.

According to Spanish newspaper "Marca", Barcelona made an initial offer of €50 million to sign Rodri, but Manchester City rejected the bid, as the English club is holding out for a higher financial return.

Manchester City is looking for at least €70 million to part ways with their Spanish midfielder, while Barcelona does not seem ready to reach that number at this time, making additional variables and incentives a crucial element in the negotiations.

Direct discussions are expected in the coming hours between Deco and Hugo Vieira, the sporting directors of Barcelona and Manchester City, in an attempt to bridge differences and reach a mutually satisfactory agreement.

Hans Flick is pushing to secure the deal as quickly as possible, wanting Rodri to join the team during the pre-season preparations for the new campaign.

Rodri was expected to join Barcelona's training on Wednesday alongside the rest of the Spanish national team players, but reaching an agreement this quickly seems unlikely. Additionally, Rodri will need to undergo medical examinations before officially completing his transfer.