Barcelona targets Rodri after de Jong injury opens midfield gap

Barcelona is considering a move for Rodri following Frenkie de Jong's medium-term injury, which has left a void in their midfield as they prepare for the new season. While the club has been linked with Azzedine Ounahi as a cost-effective option, there is significant interest in Rodri, who was the standout performer in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Barcelona acknowledges that Real Madrid currently holds the advantage, having submitted a verbal offer of around €50 million to Manchester City for Rodri. Barcelona is monitoring the situation closely and will only pursue Rodri if feasible within their Financial Fair Play constraints. The uncertainty of de Jong’s injury status might prompt Barcelona to reinforce their midfield sooner than anticipated.

• 6:40 AMYahoo Sports — Barcelona could attempt to sign Real Madrid midfield target after de Jong injury