Barcelona believe World Cup winner’s transfer could be completed this time next week – report

Barcelona are confident they are nearing a deal to sign World Cup winner Rodri from Manchester City, with the transfer potentially finalized within the next week. The Spanish club has been in negotiations with the English side for around 10 days, in hopes of agreeing a transfer fee for the 30-year-old. Rodri has expressed a strong desire to return to Spain this summer, which ultimately helped Barcelona secure his signature.

Recent communications between the two clubs have led to several important advances in the deal, leading Barcelona to believe the agreement could be completed during the weekend. Their intention is for Rodri to be signed by Monday. The timeline is crucial, as Barcelona want the player officially signed by then, which would necessitate the remaining negotiations and contractual formalities to be completed over the weekend.

Rodri is expected to join his new teammates and commence training under Hansi Flick, while Barcelona may want to unveil their marquee signing at the Joan Gamper Trophy. Despite not participating in Manchester City training next week, Rodri is likely closing in on an exit as he is not expected to be part of their upcoming sessions.

The final financial structure will be crucial in sealing the deal, but signing Rodri would significantly bolster Barcelona's midfield, bringing control, experience, and tactical intelligence to the team.