Manchester City midfielder, Rodri, has arrived in Barcelona as he closes in on a move to the Catalan club worth €76.5 million (£65.3 million).
The 30-year-old is expected to complete the transfer after undergoing his medical on Tuesday, with Barcelona planning to formally unveil him on Wednesday if everything goes according to plan.
Speaking after arriving at Barcelona’s El Prat airport, Rodri expressed his excitement about joining the Spanish giants.
“I’m very happy to be here. It’s been an intense few days, but I’m glad everything is sorted out.
“Playing for Barcelona is a dream come true for me. I’m really looking forward to being with my teammates, most of whom I already know from the national team, so now it’s time to work hard and give my best.
“We’re going for the Champions League, we’re going for everything that comes our way.”
Rodri’s move brings his seven-year spell at Manchester City closer to an end.
The midfielder had entered the final year of his contract at the Etihad Stadium and had attracted interest from both Barcelona and Real Madrid.
Barcelona initially had an offer of around €50 million rejected before returning with an improved bid that eventually convinced City to agree to the transfer on Sunday.
City had hoped to retain the Spain international, with manager Enzo Maresca describing him as a “top player” and stressing his importance to any team, “all the teams need Rodri”.
However, the club was unable to convince him to extend his contract and remain in Manchester.
Rodri only returned to City on Friday after recovering from back surgery following the World Cup.
His recent injury struggles have also included an anterior cruciate ligament problem that ruled him out for much of the 2024-25 campaign, as well as subsequent hamstring and groin issues.
During his time at City, Rodri won four Premier League titles and scored the decisive goal in the club’s 2023 Champions League final victory over Inter Milan.
He was also awarded the Ballon d’Or the following year, although he was unable to play when he received the prestigious award because of his knee injury.
City have already reshaped their midfield this summer, spending €135 million on Elliot Anderson and agreeing to sell Tijjani Reijnders to Al Qadisah.
The Premier League champions have also been linked with Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi and Chelsea’s Enzo Fernández as they prepare for life without Rodri.
