Concern for Real Madrid as Barcelona hold talks with key target’s camp; player appealed by project

Concern for Real Madrid as Barcelona hold talks with key target’s camp; player appealed by project

Real Madrid enjoyed a successful day on Wednesday, having achieved a breakthrough in the deal for Yan Diomande and made meaningful progress in their renewal talks with Vinicius Jr.

However, it appears that their pursuit of another key target, Rodri, may have fallen in jeopardy, thanks to their arch-rivals FC Barcelona.

Barcelona explore move

Indeed, according to The Athletic , Barcelona are exploring a move to sign the Manchester City heavyweight, despite reports suggesting otherwise earlier in the week.

As per the report, the La Liga champions have held direct talks with Rodri’s camp to understand the conditions of a potential deal.

Real Madrid have been working on the operation to sign the Spain captain for weeks now, with reports suggesting that a deal was close as the player wanted to return to the Spanish capital.

Barcelona make their move for Rodri. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Personal terms were also believed to have been agreed and the only thing left was for the two clubs to reach an agreement over a transfer fee.

Now, though, Barcelona’s entry into the picture seems to have changed things. Having lost Frenkie de Jong to a knee injury for months, the Catalans have decided to make their move now.

Rodri attracted by the Barcelona project

According to the report, Rodri is attracted by the sporting project presented by Barcelona.

The style of play under Hansi Flick is something that appeals to him while the dressing room is also seen as a good fit, given that there is a large contingent of Spain players with whom he won the World Cup this summer.

Rodri attracted by Barcelona’s project. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)

In fact, an alternate report from Alex Crook of talkSPORT suggests that Barça may even be moving ahead of Real Madrid in the race for Rodri.

Concern for Real Madrid

This development will come as a major concern for Real Madrid, given that manager Jose Mourinho has been pushing hard for the club to sign Rodri.

The manager sees the Spanish World Cup winner as a pivotal addition to the midfield as he can provide control, dictate tempo and add more creativity.

But with Barcelona now making their move for Rodri, the situation is now fully open and it remains to be seen where the 30-year-old ace ends up.

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