Barcelona urged to sign Rodri as Real Madrid circle Manchester City star

Barcelona have been encouraged to enter the race for Manchester City midfielder Rodri, with growing speculation that Real Madrid are leading the chase for the Spain international.

Rodri's outstanding performances at the FIFA World Cup have reignited transfer rumours, with the 30-year-old once again being linked with a return to La Liga after another remarkable year for club and country.

While Real Madrid remain the favourites, some voices in Spain believe Barcelona should attempt to hijack the move.

Rodri enhanced his reputation further after being named Best Player of the Tournament at the FIFA World Cup.

The Manchester City midfielder added the individual honour to an already glittering career that includes the Ballon d'Or and a World Cup winners' medal with Spain.

Having successfully recovered from a serious knee injury, the midfielder has re-established himself as one of the world's leading holding midfielders.

Spanish journalist David Bernabéu believes Barcelona should pursue Rodri, even if only to prevent Real Madrid from signing him.

He argued that the Manchester City star possesses the quality to challenge Frenkie de Jong for a starting place and would significantly strengthen Barcelona's midfield.

The comments reflect growing concern in Spain that Real Madrid could land one of their biggest transfer targets.

Despite the Barcelona links, reports continue to suggest Real Madrid are in the strongest position to sign Rodri.

According to reports in Spain, the European champions have already reached an agreement with the player over personal terms.

Club president Florentino Pérez is also believed to support the move, while Rodri is reportedly interested in returning to Spanish football.

With only one year remaining on his Manchester City contract, a transfer has become increasingly plausible.

Any potential move will ultimately depend on Manchester City's willingness to negotiate.

Former Real Madrid star Luís Figo has acknowledged Rodri's links with the Spanish club but believes agreeing a deal with City will be far from straightforward.

The Premier League champions remain under no pressure to sell one of the world's best midfielders, leaving any negotiations likely to be complex.

Real Madrid are expected to continue working on a potential deal for Rodri, while Barcelona's interest remains speculative for now. Manchester City must decide whether to open negotiations or retain one of their most influential players for the final year of his contract.