RESOLVING THE LEDGER
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See the full story · 3 sourcesBarcelona face major obstacle in pursuit of Manchester City maestro – report
Barcelona have moved quickly in the last 24 hours to leapfrog Real Madrid and position themselves ahead in the race to sign Manchester City star Rodri.
The 30-year-old Spaniard had looked close to a move to Los Blancos for a week now, but Barça have now opened direct contact with his camp.
Rodri is said to be piqued by the Ca t alan club’s interest , and his familiarity with many players in the dressing room is swaying the Spaniard in this direction.
Now, according to journalist Victor Navarro , Barça ’s interest in Rodri is genuine, but convincing Manchester City to sell may not be the club’s biggest challenge.
Salary could prove decisive
The Spain international’s salary demands have emerged as one of the key obstacles in any potential deal, adding another layer of complexity to an already difficult operation.
Salary could be a problem. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
While Barcelona are continuing to monitor Rodri’s situation, agreeing personal terms with the 30-year-old will be crucial.
The midfielder and his representatives are seeking a salary that reflects both his status as a Ballon d’Or winner and as one of the most decorated midfielders in world football.
That immediately raises questions over whether Barcelona can fit such a package within their financial framework, even if they manage to agree a transfer fee with Manchester City.
The club have worked hard in recent years to reduce their wage bill, and it would not make sense to break it to satisfy just one player.
If Rodri comes to Barça , he will have to accept a financial sacrifice and hope that the sporting project makes up for the money he might miss out on.
Barça need to analyse the pros and cons of the deal
Barcelona’s interest may be real and Rodri may want the move, but completing the operation is another matter entirely.
Will Barcelona sign Rodri? (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
Rodri is currently 30 and is coming off a couple of injury-ridden seasons. The Spaniard had an excellent World Cup, but his long-term fitness is still a concern.
Even now, he is currently recuperating from minor back surgery that he underwent after the World Cup, and it is not clear how long he is out for.
Barça also have talented midfielders like Marc Bernal who have immense potential in the same position, and his game time might reduce with the arrival of Rodri.
The Catalan club need to get all the conditions required to make the Rodri deal, analyse the pros and cons and make an informed decision.
Most importantly, they should not accept any contract that would damage the club in the long run, and it remains to be seen how much Rodri asks for to play for Barça .
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