Manchester City are heading into a new era this season, with Enzo Maresca taking over from Pep Guardiola after the Spaniard’s decade-long reign.
There have already been significant changes to the squad too, with John Stones, Bernardo Silva and Nathan Ake among the established names to depart.
But the upheaval may not be finished yet, with one of City’s biggest stars attracting serious interest from Barcelona.
The Premier League champions have now made their position clear.
Man City Reject Bid for Rodri
Manchester City have turned down a fresh £55 million offer from Barcelona for Rodri, according to Sky Sports News.
The Catalan giants had already seen an earlier proposal worth around £40m rejected, but they returned with an improved bid in an attempt to convince City to part with the Spain international.
That second offer has also been dismissed, with City understood to be looking for more than £60m before they would even consider allowing the 30-year-old to leave.
Barcelona remain keen on Rodri and are now weighing up whether to make another approach. The midfielder is particularly attractive to the Spanish club given his status as one of the world’s leading players in his position and his experience at both club and international level.
Rodri is entering the final year of his current contract, which has naturally added to the uncertainty surrounding his future. Despite that, City have made it clear throughout the summer that their preference is to keep hold of him and negotiate a fresh deal.
Guardiola has previously described Rodri as “incredible”, and his importance to City’s midfield has been difficult to overstate since his arrival from Atletico Madrid.
However, City have also indicated that their stance could change if Rodri himself pushes for an exit. The club would not stand in his way should the midfielder make it clear that he wants to leave.
For now, though, Barcelona’s latest attempt has been rejected and City appear determined to keep their World Cup-winning captain at the Etihad.
