Barcelona do not plan to sign a new midfielder during the current summer transfer window, a decision that could strengthen Real Madrid’s position in their reported interest in Spain captain Rodri.
Head coach Hansi Flick and sporting director Deco believe Barcelona already have enough options to cover all three midfield positions, according to Spanish newspaper Marca. The club’s sporting department is therefore not convinced that further investment is needed in that area of the team.
That view has also led Barcelona to advise Marc Casado to look for a new club this summer, with the midfielder increasingly expected to leave before the start of the new season.
Barcelona’s position comes despite the injury suffered by Frenkie de Jong, which has prompted questions among supporters and sections of the media about whether the club should strengthen in midfield. However, those concerns are not believed to be shared by the club’s sporting leadership.
Rodri has emerged as a potential target amid growing discussion about Barcelona entering the market for a midfielder. The Manchester City player, who captains Spain, impressed during the most recent World Cup and remains one of the most highly regarded midfielders in the game.
However, three factors are understood to be pushing Barcelona away from a move. The first is the club’s belief that it already possesses sufficient midfield cover. The second is the likely cost of the deal, which could reach about 70m euros. The third is the expectation within Barcelona that Rodri’s most likely destination would be Real Madrid.
Barcelona’s hierarchy reportedly does not consider it reasonable to spend close to 70m euros on a player primarily to cover De Jong’s absence during his recovery from injury. The club has other priorities in the transfer market, with strengthening the attack at the top of the list and defensive reinforcements considered a secondary need, according to Marca.
That approach could leave Real Madrid with a clearer route to Rodri if the Spanish giants decide to pursue the midfielder. Barcelona’s decision not to compete financially for his signature is significant given the player’s status and his links to a possible return to Spain.
The Catalan club appears instead ready to rely on its existing midfield group, even with uncertainty surrounding De Jong’s fitness. The expectation that Casado could depart would reduce the number of available options, but Barcelona’s sporting department still believes its resources are adequate.
Infantino facing pressure
Elsewhere, FIFA president Gianni Infantino is reportedly facing calls from some senior figures within football’s governing body to resign. The reports describe a significant development, while Arab and African backing is said to be strengthening Infantino’s position as he confronts what has been described as a European campaign against him.
The FIFA situation is separate from Barcelona’s transfer planning, but both developments were reported alongside the latest discussion about Rodri and the Spanish club’s summer priorities.
