The agent of the 2022 world champion told Cadena SER: « Par respect pour Madrid, car ils ont été exemplaires, Rodri les a informés que sa décision est de rejoindre le Barça. » The two clubs must now agree on a transfer fee before the deal can be finalised.

With Rodri’s departure looming, Manchester City are searching for a replacement. According to Sky Italia, head coach Enzo Maresca has identified Enzo Fernández as his top target. Maresca previously coached the 25-year-old Argentine at Chelsea and believes he fits the profile needed to replace Rodri in City’s spine.

Securing Enzo Fernández will require significant investment. The vice-champions of England will need to match the midfielder’s reported valuation of over 100 million euros. Market prices have risen sharply this summer, partly driven by the recent arrival of Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest for around 135 million euros.

City’s need to act quickly reflects the urgency of Rodri’s situation. The club must either agree terms with Barcelona or find an alternative before the window shuts.

Maresca has made his preference clear, but the financial demands remain steep. The Italian’s plan hinges on whether the club can meet the valuation placed on Enzo Fernández.

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For Barcelona, the pursuit of Rodri represents a statement signing. The club’s interest follows months of speculation linking the midfielder with a move to the Camp Nou.

City now face a choice: agree a fee for Rodri, pursue Enzo Fernández at a premium, or explore other options before the deadline.

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\n\n« Par respect pour Madrid, car ils ont été exemplaires, Rodri les a informés que sa décision est de rejoindre le Barça », the agent said, underlining the respectful context behind the move.

\n\nThe coming days will determine whether the deal for Rodri is completed or if City pursue a different path in the closing stages of the window.",