Rabat – Manchester City midfielder Rodri has arrived in Barcelona as he closes in on a high-profile move to the Catalan club, with the Spain international already looking ahead to his next chapter.
The 30-year-old arrived at El Prat airport ahead of his scheduled medical on Tuesday, with Barcelona and City having reached an agreement worth €76.5 million (£65.3 million).
Rodri told reporters he was pleased to finally see the transfer reach its decisive stage after several intense days.
“I’m very happy to be here. It’s been an intense few days, but I’m glad everything is sorted out.”
The midfielder described the opportunity to represent Barcelona as a long-held ambition.
“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.”
His ambitions extend well beyond simply completing the move, with Rodri immediately setting his sights on major trophies.
“We’re going for the Champions League, we’re going for everything that comes our way.”
Barcelona win the race for Rodri
Rodri’s move comes as the midfielder enters the final year of his Manchester City contract. Both Barcelona and Real Madrid had shown interest in securing his signature, but Barca eventually won the race.
The Spanish champions initially saw a bid of around €50 million rejected before increasing their offer and reaching an agreement with City on Sunday.
A successful medical would clear the final major hurdle, with Barcelona expected to officially confirm the signing afterwards and present the midfielder on Wednesday.
Maresca faces a major midfield reshuffle
City had hoped to convince their midfield anchor to remain at the Etihad, with manager Enzo Maresca recently highlighting his importance.
“All the teams need Rodri,” Maresca said after Sunday’s Community Shield, while describing the midfielder as a “top player.”
His departure nevertheless comes as City continue to overhaul their midfield. The club have already spent €135 million on Elliot Anderson and agreed a deal to send Tijjani Reijnders to Al Qadisah.
With Rodri now heading to Barcelona, City’s search for further midfield reinforcements could intensify, with Morocco international Ayyoub Bouaddi of Lille and Chelsea’s Enzo Fernández among the names linked with the Premier League side.
