Rodri’s betrayal: Barcelona steal ahead in the race for Real Madrid’s dream target

Last Updated on 6 August 2026

Real Madrid spent weeks believing Rodri would become their next Bernabeu icon. Instead, Barcelona have suddenly stormed ahead in this dramatic transfer saga.

Manchester City reportedly froze talks with Madrid, convinced their rivals would enter the race.

Now, that prediction looks accurate with Barcelona coming in, and Florentino Perez’s plans hang precariously in the balance.

Manchester City stalling: Real Madrid’s deal ‘falls apart’ for Rodri

Real Madrid began formal talks roughly ten days ago, backed fully by Perez himself. However, price disagreements quickly stalled genuine progress between both clubs. City demanded €75million, while Madrid offered just €50million, citing Rodri’s age and injury history.

Consequently, negotiations reportedly turned “broken” within days. Madrid’s frugal approach frustrated City executives, who expected a more competitive bid. Therefore, City quietly signalled to other suitors that Rodri remained genuinely available.

Reports also suggest Rodri himself harbours doubts about Madrid’s football philosophy. Apparently, he feels Barcelona’s style suits his game better than Jose Mourinho’s system. That preference alone explains why Barcelona feel emboldened to pursue him aggressively.

Barcelona’s football department moved quickly once Madrid’s stall became obvious. Club officials have now contacted both Rodri’s representatives and City’s hierarchy directly. Fabrizio Romano confirmed this development, stating Rodri’s decision remains entirely his own.

Manchester City happy to let bidding war run

From City’s perspective, this saga looks less chaotic than it appears. Letting Real Madrid and Barcelona fight over Rodri actually strengthens City’s position considerably. Consequently, they’ve deliberately avoided rushing any agreement with Madrid alone.

Romano’s report confirms City “didn’t accept to proceed immediately” once more suitors emerged. That patience wasn’t accidental; it was calculated leverage. Therefore, City effectively created their own auction, driving Rodri’s price toward their original demand.

Financially, this timing suits City perfectly too. Rodri enters his final contract year, so selling now avoids losing him for nothing in 2027. Meanwhile, Maresca has already strengthened midfield depth through Elliot Anderson’s arrival, softening any potential blow.