Barcelona have a plan for Rodri Hernández, but only if one thing happens

Barcelona have identified another major transfer target beyond Julián Álvarez, with the club closely following developments surrounding Manchester City midfielder Rodri Hernández.

While Álvarez remains Barcelona’s top priority in the transfer market, the Catalan club have quietly opened another important front by keeping tabs on Rodri’s future. The Spanish midfielder has emerged as a potential option if he decides to leave City and is not convinced by the possibility of joining Real Madrid.

Working behind the scenes, Barcelona have been making their preparations in case an opportunity arises.

Barcelona keeping contact with Rodri’s camp

The Athletic reported that Barcelona have maintained contact with people close to Rodri, as well as officials at Manchester City, to understand the situation and remain prepared if the player becomes available.

The club’s interest would depend on two key factors: Rodri deciding to leave England and the midfielder being open to a move to Camp Nou.

Barcelona’s approach is to wait and see how events develop while ensuring they are ready to move quickly if circumstances change.

According to multiple reports, Barça believe they have the financial ability to complete the deal, although they recognize Real Madrid currently have the advantage in negotiations.

The Catalan club would only become a serious contender if talks between Rodri and Madrid break down.

Barcelona believe Rodri fits Flick’s style

At Barcelona, there is a belief that Rodri’s qualities would be a perfect match for the style of play promoted by manager Hansi Flick.

The club sees the 30-year-old midfielder as someone who could thrive in a system that values possession, control and tactical intelligence, offering him an environment suited to maximizing his strengths.

However, Barcelona have made clear that they have not yet made any formal move for the player.

The club has not submitted an offer to Rodri’s representatives or Manchester City. Instead, they have simply expressed their interest in being involved in a potential negotiation if the Spain international decides to leave the Premier League champions.

Manchester City preparing for life after Rodri?

Rodri still has one year remaining on his Manchester City contract, but speculation continues to grow that he could bring his successful spell in England to an end.

The midfielder has won every major trophy available with City and has reportedly ignored renewal offers from the club so far.

According to Sky Sports, Manchester City have already reached a verbal agreement with Ayyoub Bouaddi as a possible replacement for the Madrid-born midfielder.

Rodri could reportedly be valued at around $70 million, a relatively modest fee considering his quality and importance at the highest level of the game.

A move involving Barcelona, Real Madrid and one of the world’s best midfielders could become one of the defining transfer stories of the summer.

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