Manchester City midfielder Rodri faces a significant decision about his future, with BBC Sport reporting that Barcelona have joined Real Madrid in the race to sign him should he choose to leave the Etihad Stadium. The 29-year-old is entering the final year of his City contract and has yet to agree fresh terms, meaning the Spanish champions could face a straight fight with Real Madrid for one of the world's best midfielders, whom City sources say they are "counting on" for next season.

Rodri, the 2024 Ballon d'Or winner, endured an injury-hit 2024-25 season but returned to top form at this summer's World Cup, captaining Spain to victory and being named player of the tournament; he is currently recovering from back surgery. A Barcelona move would reunite him with Spain team-mates Ferran Torres, Lamine Yamal, Pau Cubarsi and Pedri, while Real Madrid, now managed by Jose Mourinho, would offer a reunion with former City colleague Bernardo Silva. Should Rodri depart, City would need Mateo Kovacic, Nico Gonzalez or Tijjani Reijnders to step up, with the club also in talks over Lille teenager Ayyoub Bouaddi as a potential long-term option.