Manchester City stand firm on Rodri valuation amid Barcelona and Real Madrid interest

Manchester City are refusing to lower their asking price for Rodri despite growing interest from Barcelona and Real Madrid, with the Premier League champions valuing the midfielder at more than €70 million.

The Spain international has entered the final year of his contract at the Etihad Stadium, but City are determined not to sanction a cut-price sale even though the 30-year-old is keen to return to his homeland.

According to ESPN, Barcelona have already seen an opening €45 million bid rejected by Manchester City.

Negotiations between the clubs are continuing, although an agreement is not considered close at this stage.

City are aware of Rodri's desire to move back to Spain but are unwilling to compromise on their valuation. While the club are prepared to consider a sale rather than keep an unhappy player, they expect any interested side to meet their financial demands.

New Manchester City head coach Enzo Maresca is understood to view Rodri as the cornerstone of his midfield and is reluctant to lose one of the club's most influential players.

However, Rodri's contract situation, recent injury record and age are all factors being considered as City weigh up their options before the transfer window closes.

Should the Ballon d'Or winner depart, the club are expected to move quickly for a replacement.

ESPN reports that Manchester City will enter the market for another midfielder if Rodri leaves, although any move for Lille youngster Ayyoub Bouaddi is regarded as a separate long-term investment.

There is also uncertainty surrounding the futures of Tijjani Reijnders, who has attracted interest from Nottingham Forest, and Nico González.

Meanwhile, City are closing in on the signing of Marseille goalkeeper Gerónimo Rulli as the replacement for James Trafford following his departure.

Talks between Manchester City and Barcelona are expected to continue, although a significant gap remains between the clubs' valuations. Real Madrid are also monitoring the situation, while City are preparing contingency plans should Rodri complete a return to Spain before the transfer window closes.