{
  "id": 73416,
  "title": "Barcelona could attempt to sign Real Madrid midfield target after de Jong injury",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/03/barcelona-could-attempt-to-sign-real-madrid-midfield-target-after-de",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-08-03T06:40:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/barcelona-could-attempt-sign-real-064000939.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "In light of Frenkie de Jong's long-term injury, FC Barcelona are considering bolstering their midfield ahead of the upcoming season. The absence of the Dutch international has created a void in their midfield, prompting the club to explore potential signings. Barcelona has already investigated Azzedine Ounahi as a cost-effective option, but the club is also closely monitoring the situation of Rodri, as reported by Cadena SER. Nil Sola, a journalist, shared that de Jong's injury has reignited discussions about the need to strengthen their midfield, although it is not the club's absolute priority for the transfer window. Rodri, widely regarded as one of the best midfielders in his position, has been linked with a return to Spain, with Barcelona keeping a close eye on the situation. The Catalans are aware of Rodri's affinity for their project, but the main hurdle lies in fitting his salary within Financial Fair Play regulations. Barcelona could potentially afford a transfer fee of around €50 million, depending on the feasibility of the overall operation. Real Madrid, however, appears to be in the lead, having made a verbal offer of around €50 million to Manchester City for the World Cup's standout performer. This leaves Barcelona in a wait-and-see position, hoping for an opportunity to join the competition. Despite de Jong's injury, Barcelona cannot release him from his contract, meaning any move for Rodri would depend solely on available funds. For now, Barcelona will continue to monitor the situation, understanding that their midfield is largely covered, but the uncertainty surrounding de Jong has introduced a new scenario, with Rodri remaining a key target.",
  "summary": "Barcelona are heading into the new season with a big injury casualty in the form of Frenkie de Jong.The Dutch international is out for the medium-term due to an injury and his absence has created a vo...",
  "key_points": [
    "Barcelona considering signing Rodri after de Jong injury",
    "Nil Sola reports de Jong's injury reignited midfield discussions",
    "Real Madrid leading with €50M offer for Rodri"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 3,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "BBC Sport",
        "title": "Real to resume talks with Arsenal target Vinicius Jr",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/03/real-to-resume-talks-with-arsenal-target-vinicius-jr",
        "published": "2026-08-03T17:30:32.000Z"
      },
      {
        "outlet": "MyJoyOnline Ghana",
        "title": "Real to resume talks with Arsenal target Vinicius Jr",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/03/real-to-resume-talks-with-arsenal-target-vinicius-jr-107658",
        "published": "2026-08-03T21:41:00.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}