Transfer news: Rodri Completes Barcelona Move As Arsenal Receive Alvarez Boost
by Devesh Jaganath | by Devesh Jaganath
Rodri Pens £65.4m Deal With Barcelona From Man City
La Liga champions Barcelona have officially completed the signing of Rodri from Manchester City for a reported fee of £65.4m.
The Spain international and former Ballon d’Or winner, who played a key role in the Citizens' four Premier League titles and Champions League triumph, has signed a four-year deal with the Catalan giants.
City were reportedly keen to retain the services of the 30-year-old and provide him with a new contract, but with the midfielder having just one year left on his deal, Barca’s third offer ultimately proved too good to refuse. Speaking on his move to Camp Nou, Rodri said:
"I'm very happy and excited about this new stage in my career. It's a fresh challenge, a chance to experience new things and feel that excitement again. I've come to a hugely ambitious club that really suits my personality, so I'll try to help in every way I can to achieve our objectives this season.”
Man City have brought in Elliot Anderson as a replacement for Rodri but remain interested in Chelsea’s Enzo Fernandez. There have also been several reports in recent days suggesting that the Sky Blues are keeping an eye on Morocco international Ayyoub Bouaddi.
Lille have placed an £85m valuation on Bouaddi, while Davide Ancelotti confirmed last weekend that negotiations between the clubs are ongoing.
Arsenal Favourites To Sign Alvarez After ‘Barca Move Collapses’
Arsenal are now the front-runners to secure the signing of Julian Alvarez from Atletico Madrid following reports that a possible move for the striker to Barcelona has now been ruled out.
The Gunners are looking to build on last season’s title success by adding further quality to their ranks this summer. Mikel Arteta’s side will kick off the 2026-27 season on Friday night, and you can find all the information on their opening fixture in our Arsenal vs Coventry City prediction.
Barcelona have held the upper hand in the battle for Alvarez all summer, with the Argentina international reportedly keen on joining the Catalan giants, but Arsenal’s hopes have now been boosted after Fabrizio Romano’s announcement on his YouTube channel. He said:
“We need to, once again, clarify the many questions we are receiving about Julian Alvarez. In reality guys, I know in the last hours the reports are that Barcelona believe 90 per cent, 99 per cent it’s over for Julian.”
Adding to the belief that Alvarez is close to an exit this summer is the confirmation from Diego Simeone that the Argentine will not be a part of Atletico Madrid’s La Liga season opener against Malaga tonight.
